Driver and Passenger Charged After Man Rides in Moving Open Hatchback at 100km/h.

Driver and passenger charged after man rides in moving hatchback on Hwy. 105

RCMP Northwest Traffic Services has charged a driver and passenger under the Motor Vehicle Act after a man was observed riding in the open hatchback of a moving vehicle on Hwy. 105 near Port Bevis.

On June 27, at approximately 3:08 p.m., an RCMP officer on patrol observed a Mazda3 travelling at about 100 km/h with a person filming while riding in the open hatchback. A second vehicle was following behind.

The officer conducted a traffic stop. The 21-year-old driver from Hubbards was ticketed for permitting a person to ride on a portion of a vehicle not designed for passengers. The 25-year-old passenger from Moncton was ticketed for riding on a portion of a vehicle not designed for passengers.

“The man was strapped into the hatchback with an improvised safety restraint,” said S/Sgt. Wes Blair, Acting Officer in Charge of RCMP Traffic Services. “A temporary harness or strap does not replace a seatbelt, proper seating position, closed doors, and the vehicle’s built-in safety systems.”

RCMP reminds drivers they are responsible for ensuring passengers are properly seated and restrained, while passengers also have a responsibility to follow the law and avoid unsafe behaviour.

Anyone who witnesses dangerous driving or unsafe vehicle use is asked to contact police. In an emergency or where there is an immediate risk to public safety, call 911.