BC Becomes First Canadian Province to Mandate Dash Cams on Commercial Trucks

Key Details British Columbia has passed Bill M217, making it the first Canadian jurisdiction to require outward-facing dash cameras on all commercial trucks. The legislation takes effect six months after receiving federal approval. Cameras must continuously record while vehicles operate and cannot be obscured or blocked. Why It Matters The bill protects drivers by providing objective evidence in accidents. Commercial truck drivers are found at fault in only 20-25% of crashes involving their vehicles, according to the BC Trucking Association. Dash cam footage eliminates disputes and speeds up investigations. Background Lawmaker Ward Stamer championed the bill after a series of fatal crashes on Highway 5 while he served as Mayor of Barriere in 2023. Families affected by preventable accidents pushed for the safety measure. The BC Trucking Association endorsed the legislation, recognizing how dash cameras protect drivers and provide clear evidence when collisions occur. What's Not Included Driver-facing cameras are not required under this mandate, focusing only on outward-facing video documentation of road conditions and other vehicles.