RCMP officers will be cracking down on distracted drivers in British Columbia throughout the month of September. (Photo supplied)
While government reviews B.C.’s distracted driving penalties, ICBC, police and the B.C. government are teaming up to launch a month-long distracted driving campaign across the province.
One in four deaths on B.C. roads involves distracted driving. It’s time we all commit to leaving our phones alone and avoiding other forms of distraction when we’re behind the wheel.
This month, police are ramping up their enforcement of distracted driving across the province.
Distracted driving is the second leading cause of car crash fatalities in B.C. and a leading cause of crashes with pedestrians, cyclists and motorcyclists.
Cell Watch volunteers will be roadside across the province reminding drivers to leave their phones alone. ICBC road safety co-ordinators will also be visiting community events with a driving simulator the public can try.
You can take a stand against distracted driving and encourage others to do the same by picking up a free decal to display on your vehicle at ICBC driver licensing offices and participating Autoplan broker offices.
Telus is also a supporter of this month’s campaign and has been working with ICBC to help educate drivers about the risks of using a cell phone while driving through its smartphone and Internet safety program, TELUS WISE.
The campaign features new radio advertising, digital advertising which will appear online and in restaurants and bars, and television ads. You can view an infographic on this month’s distracted driving campaign at icbc.com.
Suzanne Anton, Attorney General and Minister of Justice, says it’s unfortunate that a crackdown on distracted driving has had to become a priority.
“The cost of a distracted driving ticket in B.C. is only $167 – the second lowest in Canada – yet the cost of a distracted driving crash can be a person’s life,” said Anton. “During our month-long consultation, it was clear the public firmly agrees that our fines are too low. We are going to fix this. Over the coming months, we will make our roads safer with tough, fair, and effective sanctions to curtail this alarming but preventable problem.”
Todd Stone, Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure, echoed the same thoughts.
“We’re asking drivers to leave their phones alone and stay focused on the road,” said Stone. “When you’re distracted behind the wheel, your ability to react quickly is significantly compromised. In fact, you’re four times more likely to crash if you’re using your phone while driving.”
Staff Sergeant Dale Somerville, Program Manager, B.C. RCMP Traffic Services, said officers will be vigilant.
“If you choose to drive distracted and put others’ lives at risk, police will catch you,” said Somerville. “B.C. drivers know it’s against the law, but far too many still make excuses for their behaviour, then continue to put themselves and others at risk. That’s why we’re cracking down on those who cannot police themselves.”
SPECIAL TO THE TIMES
Osoyoos Times
