Alberta visitor loses her Chevy to excessive speed near Fort St. John

August 20, 2026 - Fort St. John, British Columbia
From: BC Highway Patrol

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A 21-year-old Alberta driver has learned the hard way that BC Highway Patrol is watching for excessive speeders in all corners of the province.

On August 13, 2026, just after 12:45 p.m., a black Chevrolet Trax was stopped on Highway #97 south of Taylor, BC, when a BC Highway Patrol radar clocked a speed of 142 km/h in a 70 zone. 

“Whether you’re a visitor or a local, it’s your responsibility to know the speed limit and stay within it,” says Sergeant Michael McLaughlin with BC Highway Patrol. “Some people have the idea that police officers don’t patrol rural roads. That can be an expensive mistake.”

The Athabasca, Alberta woman who was driving was issued:

• A seven-day impound for excessive speeding (with the tow and impound at her expense),
• A ticket for excessive speed (over 60 km/h), section 148(1) of the BC Motor Vehicle Act, with a fine of $483,
• At least three years of high-risk driver premiums and escalating insurance that will bring the total costs to over $2,000.

“If the monetary cost of excessive speeding doesn’t bother you, consider the hassle,” says Sergeant McLaughlin. “Nobody wants to be calling for a ride on the side of a rural highway. Better decision-making will make your life safer and more convenient.”

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