Ferry service between Powell River and the Sunshine Coast faced delays Friday morning after a pickup truck suffered a brake failure during boarding. The incident occurred on the Malaspina Sky vessel, leading to the cancellation of several sailings while the ship was checked for damage.
Authorities reported that the crash happened shortly after 7:30 a.m., when a Dodge pickup hit the galley ramp during the loading process. The impact caused significant damage to the front of the truck.
According to police, the vehicle’s brake system was not working properly at the time of the accident. “Evidence suggests the truck had a malfunctioning brake system,” said RCMP Cpl. Alex Bérubé in a statement issued Sunday. Investigators believe the mechanical failure prevented the driver from stopping in time, causing the collision.
The 66-year-old man driving the pickup was handed a ticket for improper brake performance. This offense carries a fine of $552 under provincial traffic laws. Police said the penalty is intended to remind all drivers about the importance of maintaining their vehicles in safe working condition.
Fortunately, no passengers, crew members, or bystanders were injured in the incident. However, ferry staff had to halt service while the damaged vehicle was removed from the ramp. Engineers also carried out a full inspection of the ferry to ensure that no structural damage had been done to the loading area.
The removal process took several hours, leading to delays for travelers waiting to cross between Powell River and the Sunshine Coast. Some passengers were able to rebook on later sailings, but others faced extended wait times at the terminal.
Local transport officials stressed that ferry operations must be suspended in such cases until safety is confirmed. “It is standard procedure to halt boarding and departure until the vessel is cleared,” said a transport safety officer familiar with ferry operations. “This protects everyone on board and ensures no hidden damage goes unnoticed.”
Brake failure is a serious mechanical problem that can lead to dangerous accidents on roads, parking areas, and transport loading zones. Vehicle safety experts say regular brake inspections are essential, especially for older vehicles or those used in heavy-duty work. Even minor signs of brake trouble, such as squealing, grinding, or reduced responsiveness, should be checked immediately by a qualified mechanic.
Police also reminded drivers to perform regular maintenance checks before long trips or when transporting their vehicles on ferries. This includes testing brakes, lights, tires, and fluid levels. “A properly maintained vehicle not only protects the driver but also everyone around them,” said Cpl. Bérubé.
The Malaspina Sky, which serves communities along the Sunshine Coast, resumed normal service later in the day once safety inspections were completed. Travelers are encouraged to check ferry schedules in advance and allow for possible delays due to unexpected incidents.
Anyone who witnessed the accident or has additional information about the incident is asked to contact the Powell River RCMP at 604-485-6255.
The accident serves as a reminder that mechanical safety should never be overlooked. While no one was harmed in this case, the outcome could have been far worse. Ensuring that a vehicle’s braking system is fully operational is one of the simplest yet most vital steps drivers can take to avoid accidents both on the road and during boarding procedures for ferries or other forms of transport.
