Unsafe tractor-trailer pulled off Highway 1 near Malakwa after numerous violations

A Calgary truck driver has been fined $1,674 and had his tractor-trailer removed from the road after B.C. Highway Patrol officers discovered numerous safety violations near Malakwa.

The incident occurred at 7:45 a.m. on September 26, 2026, during heavy rain and darkness, when an officer stopped the vehicle for having no functioning taillights.

Police found multiple safety defects, including faulty brakes and lights, missing windshield wipers, a cracked windshield, bald tires, defective seat belts, leaking diesel and unsecured steel bars. The truck’s cab was reportedly held together with ratchet straps, while hydraulic and air lines were detached.

The driver also could not produce an electronic driver log or adequately explain the violations. A one-year-old child was found in the vehicle without proper restraint, being held by the mother, who was also not wearing a seat belt.

“The public is acutely aware of the risks of unsafe big rigs, and BC Highway Patrol is always on the lookout and will take immediate action whenever we can,” said Sgt. Michael McLaughlin.

The truck and trailer were taken off the road and cannot be relicensed until all defects are repaired at the owner’s expense.