‘Troubling results’: Kamloops area nearly doubles seatbelt, distracted driving violations

Oct 8, 2026 | 11:18 AM

KAMLOOPS — The BC Highway Patrol (BCHP) says it caught nearly twice as many drivers with seatbelt and distracted driving violations in central B.C., which includes Kamloops, Merritt, Clearwater and Kelowna in this year’s enforcement campaign.

“It’s not just your imagination – drivers are using their cell phones more than ever and it’s a troubling result echoed by users who are also ignoring their seatbelts,” said the BC Highway Patrol.

During their 2026 Distracted Driver Campaign in September, BCHP said 483 drivers were found to be using an electronic device while driving in central B.C., while another 263 drivers were caught without a seatbelt.

Last year, BCHP issued 285 warnings or tickets to drivers using an electronic device while driving and 162 seatbelt violation fines.

In a statement, BCHP Supt. Lori Orstad said drivers need to hold themselves accountable for driving safely.

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“It’s easy to blame the driver next to you for their bad and unsafe decisions, but maybe it’s time to start looking in the mirror,” said Orstad.

“The numbers are way too high. We should be making better decisions behind the wheel or even as passengers.”

Across B.C., 1,587 drivers were caught using an electronic device while driving and 826 were found to have seatbelt violations, compared to 734 and 456 last year, respectively.

According to BCHP, staffing levels, good weather and a lower number of serious fatalities in September could play a role in heightened numbers, but officials note that driver behaviour is likely the most important factor.

“There’s never a better time than right now to build better habits,” said Orstad.

“Don’t start your car until you and every passenger are belted in. And put your phone out of reach before you hit the ignition. You can live without texting or using a GPS to get home from work.”

BCHP said using an electronic device while driving could net you a $368 ticket, while seatbelt violations come with a $167 fine.

The numbers reported by the BCHP include both warnings and tickets, but Highway Patrol said warnings make up about three per cent of the total enforcement numbers.

by Elora McCormack

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‘Troubling results’: Kamloops area nearly doubles seatbelt, distracted driving violations

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