Where did the Malahat accident occur on January 11?

Police reported a head-on collision near Bamberton, south of Mill Bay, along the Malahat section of Highway 1. Shawnigan Lake RCMP responded, and the route was closed in both directions with detours set up on local roads. Drivers faced significant delays while investigators and crews worked at the scene.

How are detours affecting traffic today?

Traffic is funneled to Shawnigan Lake Road and nearby connectors. These roads have lower speeds and limited capacity, so queues grow quickly. The Highway 1 closure concentrates vehicles onto local streets, causing longer travel times for commuters, freight, and couriers. Essential trips should plan extra time and confirm delivery windows.

What is the business impact of the Malahat accident?

Retail restocks, parcel deliveries, and field services can be delayed, creating short-term revenue pressure. Construction sites may re-sequence tasks if materials arrive late. Investors should watch for overtime costs at couriers, temporary store hours changes, and delivery performance updates until Highway 1 flow normalizes.

What should investors monitor next?

Track official reopening updates, courier advisories, and retailer communications on restock timing. Watch for comments on delivery success rates and service backlogs. Note any announced safety measures for the corridor. These signals show how quickly the market absorbs the disruption from the Malahat accident and resumes normal operations.

Law and Government

Malahat Accident January 11: Highway 1 Closure Puts Island Logistics at Risk

ByDanny Kontos January 12, 2026January 12, 2026

The Malahat accident on January 11 led to a full Highway 1 closure near the summit south of Mill Bay, with detours via Shawnigan Lake Road and long delays. For investors, this is a clear reminder that a single corridor disruption can ripple across Vancouver Island logistics. Same-day deliveries, grocery restocks, construction supply runs, and appointment-based services may slip. We outline the facts, business impacts, and what to watch for as police investigate and crews work to reopen the route safely.