With Spring here and summer just around the corner, the Nelson West Kootenay Traffic Services and Nelson Integrated Road Safety Unit would like to remind the motoring public of some very important vehicle safety features.
Since 1990, it has been mandatory for Canadian vehicles to have daytime running lights; these are the lights that automatically come on when the vehicle is in motion.
If a car is imported and is without this feature, it is compulsory to have these lights installed.
Daytime running lights are an added safety feature as they make your car more visible, especially when weather or lighting conditions are poor.
Please check your car to ensure that these lights are in good working order; if not, then please have them repaired.
Another major concern is loud mufflers, as this is a daily complaint made to the RCMP by the general public.
Regulations require that a vehicle be installed with a muffler that doesn’t emit excess noise, as defined by the Motor Vehicle Act; “Muffler and exhaust system must be the same or equivalent of which is was manufactured with.”
The driving public should be aware that after market loud tubes or mufflers, or no mufflers, will be strictly enforced with a fine and/or inspection notice issued.
With sunnier and warmer weather, people will be enjoying beach time and summer barbecues and may be choosing to consume alcohol and drive.
The RCMP will continue to step up their enforcement to ensure that the motoring public is safe.
Please be responsible as the penalties for drinking and driving are enormous and can be life changing for many.
Let’s work together to enjoy a safe and quiet summer in the West Kootenays.