News release
WSP, RCMP kick off safety messaging ahead of worldwide soccer tournament
June 8, 2026
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British Columbia, British Columbia
From: BC Highway Patrol
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The world’s biggest soccer tournament is just days away from kicking off in North America. In anticipation of the increase in traffic, the Washington State Patrol (WSP) and the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) encourage drivers to be on the ball and make good choices this summer.
Multiple matches are scheduled in Seattle and British Columbia throughout June and July. Additionally, numerous fan zones are set to be hosted throughout the region. Expected fans attending the events will add to the region’s usual summer traffic influx, meaning it’s important for everyone to do their part when it comes to roadway safety.
Transcript
Video description:
A BC Highway Patrol vehicle and a Washington State Patrol vehicle sit in front of the Peace Arch with their emergency lights activated. A uniformed BCHP and WSP trooper speak to the camera.
Transcription:
RCMP: Whether you call it soccer or football, the world’s biggest tournament is kicking off in our cities - and the RCMP and Washington State Patrol want you to stay safe on our highways.
WSP: You can expect an increase in traffic and congestion on our roads. Be sure to give yourself plenty of extra time, and wherever you go, pack patience.
RCMP: In the U.S., you travel by miles…
WSP: While in Canada you use kilometers. Either way, it’s up to you to watch your speedometer and adhere to the posted limits.
RCMP: Whether you are in the US or Canada,
WSP: Always buckle up. Every trip. Every time.
RCMP: Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is illegal no matter if you’re in Canada or the USA. Have a plan to get home safe and drive sober.
WSP: Distracted driving is illegal whether you’re on Interstate 5 or the Trans Canada Highway. Please avoid all distractions and focus on what’s most important: your actual driving.
RCMP: So let’s all enjoy the soccer…
WSP: Or football…
RCMP: And make sure we all stay safe on our highways.
“No matter what side of the border you are driving, we expect you to buckle up your seatbelt, stay off your cell phone, and keep to the posted speed limit,” said Chief Superintendent Stephen Cocks, the Officer in Charge of BC Highway Patrol. “We don’t want this soccer celebration to turn tragic, so obey the traffic laws and stay safe on our roads.”
In both Washington State and British Columbia:
- Properly wearing your seatbelt is required
- The use of a hand-held electronic device while driving is illegal
- The legal limit for Driving Under the Influence (Impaired Driving or DUI) is 0.08 percent blood alcohol concentration (BAC)
- Need emergency services? Dial 9-1-1
Drivers crossing the border must be aware of the change from miles per hour (mph) in the United States to kilometres per hour (km/h) in Canada. Excessive speed is not only unsafe, but also unacceptable and a fineable offense in both regions; in British Columbia, excessive speed may lead to your vehicle being towed.
Historically, summertime marks an increase in fatality collisions for both regions. For the WSP, the 90 Dangerous Days of summer are from early June to early September. British Columbia’s deadliest days often fall between July and August.
“We certainly want everyone to have a good time, but most importantly we want everyone to be safe,” said WSP Chief John R. Batiste. “Whether you are in Washington or British Columbia, the WSP and RCMP will be on patrol. There will be a lot more folks sharing our roadways, so please, be patient, make good choices, and never drive impaired.
Contacts
Media Relations Officer
BC Highway Patrol
bchp_media@rcmp-grc.gc.ca
778-290-5844