27 excessive speeding tickets were issued by Nanaimo RCMP in June, 2020 marking a 400 per cent increase compared to June, 2019. Excessive speeding is defined as travelling 40 km/h over the speed limit, resulting in an automatic vehicle impoundment (Alex Rawnsley/NanaimoNewsNOW)

By NanaimoNewsNOW Staff

Too fast

Excessive speeding tickets handed out skyrocket in Nanaimo

Jul 10, 2020 | 11:20 AM

NANAIMO — Local tow truck operators are busy hauling away vehicles for going far too fast.

Nanaimo RCMP Cst. Gary O’Brien said 27 excessive speeding tickets were issued in June, representing a 400 per cent increase compared to June, 2019 figures.

“The attitude has to change, speeds have to be reduced,” O’Brien said, who noted most of the recent incidents occurred on both highways through Nanaimo.

He said their traffic department shifted tactics to ensure multiple members worked a given location, allowing more speeders to be pulled over.

O’Brien said their detachment even received a formal thank-you letter after nabbing a young driver for excessive speeding.

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“The mother pointed out we may have saved this young girl’s life…We don’t often get a thank you letter for issuing such a significant ticket.”

Penalties for excessive speeding start at a $368 and a week-long vehicle impoundment.

O’Brien said 227 Motor Vehicle Act tickets were issued in June, an 18 per cent increase from June, 2019. year-to-date. Those tickets were for a range of infractions like failing to signal or wear a seatbelt.

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