CASE LAW - R v Kafka

BC Courts Coat of ArmsRobert Pitman-Jelly was driving a tractor trailer southbound in the 9800 block of West Saanich Road in Victoria. His intent was to turn left into the driveway for the Marine Technology Center. To prepare for the turn, Mr. Pitman-Jelly moved to the right side of the road in order to make a wide left turn due to the length of his vehicle combination. He was aware of traffic around him and judged that he had sufficient time to make the turn safely. He signalled and started to make his turn only to have a passing vehicle collide with the left front corner of his tractor.

A Comedy of Errors

ICBC LogoThis week ICBC rolled out a new road safety campaign called Drive Smart. It's aimed at increasing driver knowledge, promoting staying focused while driving and looking out for the safety of other road users. There is also a special social media hashtag: #KnowYourPartBC.

CASE LAW - R v Gjoka

BC Courts Coat of ArmsMarlen Gjoka was travelling eastbound on the Trans Canada Highway entering the posted 50 km/h speed zone that begins near the Harriet Road intersection. Constable Klear of the Saanich police department was stationed 350 meters into the zone observing and measuring the speeds of approaching traffic. He estimated Mr. Gjoka's speed at 100 km/h and using an UltraLyte LRB laser device he measured the speed at 99 km/h.

Driver Attitude and Automated Enforcement

Red Light Camera SignPerhaps the most effective way to improve road safety is by improving road user attitude. If selfish and unsafe behaviours can be shown as detrimental and users convinced to choose what is beneficial on their own reaching our Vision Zero targets have a better chance of being successful. Some people are willing to change their outlook when it makes sense to do so, but we also share the road with those who are not willing.

Q&A - Friend's Car Impounded

Q&A ImageIf someone is driving without a license and gets their friend's car impounded for 30 days, is there a way to get it out sooner? And is there any trouble for the owner of the vehicle (through their insurance or anything) for having someone drive the vehicle without a license and getting it impounded?