Reducing fatalities and serious injuries from distracted driving is one of the top priorities for the RCMP Traffic Services.
Preliminary statistics for 2012 indicate that 30 per cent of motor vehicle fatalities involved distracted driving.
Myths and facts
Myth – Texting when you’re stopped at a stop sign or light is okay.
Fact – If you are in the driver’s seat of a vehicle, with the engine running and in a travelling lane of traffic, you cannot use your handheld phone to talk or text.
Myth – If it’s a quick call, it’s okay to use your handheld cell phone.
Fact – No, you cannot use a handheld cell while driving – unless you are phoning 911 to report an emergency.
Myth – I’m a great multi-tasker, I can talk on my phone, eat and drive at the same time.
Fact – RCMP statistics say otherwise. Drivers who are observed to contravene other rules of the road while using a handheld device can be charged with driving without due care and attention. That’s a $368 fine.
Myth – If I hide my cell and text in my lap, no one will know what I’m doing.
Fact – Police officers have a term for that (which can’t be divulged here). But suffice it to say, you’re not fooling anyone. The fine for using a handheld cell phone while driving is $167.
