With the month turning to October, winter tires are now required in British Columbia.
Because of this, the West Kelowna RCMP and BC Highway Patrol conducted a highway blitz on Highway 97 focusing on tire requirements.
From 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. on Tuesday, Oct. 10, officers inspected 400 vehicles travelling along the Okanagan Connector, issuing many fines including:
- One commercial vehicle faced a 90-day Immediate Roadside Prohibition (IRP);
- Four commercial vehicles were taken out of service due to alcohol and drug violations;
- Six commercial vehicles were cited for violations and turnarounds, which included inadequate tire treads and travelling without winter tires and chains.
On top of the commercial vehicles, 16 personal vehicles were turned around because of insufficient tire tread or not using winter-approved tires or chains.
Back in West Kelowna, the blitz continued in two elementary school zones where five people received tickets for speeding in a school zone while nine others suffered warnings including seat belt violations.
“This marks the third consecutive year and I am astonished how many individuals fail to adhere to these simple rules that are in place to ensure the safety of everyone on our roadways,” said Kelowna media relations officer Const. Mike Della-Paolera.
From October 1 to April 30, winter tires or chains are required on most routes in British Columbia. For select highways not located through mountain passes and/or high snowfall areas, tire and chain requirements end March 31. Winter tires must display a mountain peak with a snowflake and/or the letters “M” and “S” (Mud and Snow). A legal winter tire (on a standard passenger vehicle or a four-wheel/all-wheel vehicle) must also have at least 3.5 mm of tread depth.
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