Over the weekend, a teenage driver with a beginner’s license led police on a wild chase before crashing a car filled with passengers into a yard in Port Moody.
The Port Moody Police Department (PMPD) encountered a Honda sedan packed with occupants on Clarke Road early Saturday morning. The vehicle prominently displayed an ‘N’ sticker, indicating a novice or Class 7 driver.
Constable Sam Zacharias highlighted that novice drivers have restrictions on the number of passengers allowed in the car. Upon attempting to pull over the vehicle for a compliance check, the driver took off down Mount Royal Drive.
The pursuit ended when the driver crashed into a shrub in a residential front yard. Police discovered five more passengers in the car, with one even found in the trunk.
Aside from the occupancy violations, the driver also failed a roadside alcohol screening test. Thankfully, there were no serious injuries reported, with the collision being less severe due to hitting vegetation instead of a solid structure.
The 19-year-old driver now faces multiple charges under the Motor Vehicle Act, as confirmed by Zacharias. This incident serves as a stark reminder to never drink and drive and always opt for a safe mode of transportation.
Zacharias emphasized the dangers of impaired and reckless driving, stating that law enforcement will take decisive action against such behavior. Penalties can range from fines to license suspensions and vehicle confiscations.
In conclusion, he warned against risky behaviors like driving under the influence and overcrowding vehicles, highlighting the grave consequences that can result from such actions.