Williams Lake woman nabbed for excessive speed on Coquihalla, has father’s SUV impounded

MERRITT, B.C. — A Williams Lake woman was without her father’s vehicle for a week after being caught speeding on the Coquihalla Highway south of Merritt. 

On July 11, BC Highway Patrol says a 2026 Honda Pilot was clocked going 168 km/h in a 120km/h zone. 

In a news release issued Monday (July 20), Highway Patrol says the 20-year-old learner driver had five passengers in the SUV but she said they were all family members. An unlimited number of family passengers is an exception allowed by the BC Motor Vehicle Act. 

“This is a reminder to everyone that just because something is technically legal, that doesn’t mean it’s a good idea,” Cpl. Michael McLaughlin states. “Learner drivers do not have the demonstrated skills to safely drive a large number of passengers – which is something this driver exemplified when she chose to speed.”