Driving in BC
Did You Know …
It’s always a bit strange driving in a new place—especially if they drive on the other side of the road!
Whether you’re a newbie to Canada or visiting closer to home, here are some of the common situations you need to be aware of when driving in BC.
Stop Signs
You must come to a complete stop at all stop signs.
At a four way stop the general rule is ‘first come, first service’. This means that if you arrive at an intersection and see a vehicle to your right that arrived before you, that driver gets to go first.
Turning Right on a Red Light
In BC it is legal to turn right on a red light, unless you see the above sign.
Which Side?
In Canada, you drive on the right-hand side of the road.
Usually the steering wheel will be next to the middle of the road as you drive.
HOWEVER!
Our vans are imports. This means the steering wheel is on the right-hand side of the car, closer to the edge of the road. Because of their small car
Merging
If you’re hailing from European countries, it is normal for people to move over into faster lanes, or stop before the junction, to let you out onto the road.
Do not expect this in Canada.
Round Abouts
On a round about, travel in an anti-clockwise direction. Be on the look out as many people will not signal when they are taking an exit.
Types of Roads
There are two main types of roads on the island.
Paved (aka. tarmac) roads , these are your main highways and side roads connecting the major and minor towns. Our vans can travel on any of these at all times. If you break down, we can easily come and get you.
Forestry Service Roads, FSR for short. These are non-paved roads and are usually in different states of repair. As they are service roads and not meant for everyday travel. Our vans cannot go down these roads as we cannot rescue you if anything were to happen.
More information
Looking for more in-depth rules and guidelines? Click the link below.