Distracted driving is considered a “contributing factor” in 38 per cent of all crashes reported to police, according to ICBC data, and the second leading cause of collisions that result in deaths.
This is why in March Richmond RCMP will be cracking down on distracted driving.
March has been designated by the BC Chiefs of Police and ICBC as Distracted Driving Awareness and Enforcement Month.
Fines for distracted driving range from $368 for first-time offenders and four demerit points to as much as $2,000 in financial penalties for repeat offenders.
Last year, Richmond RCMP issued 1,378 violation tickets to drivers seen using electronic devices, said Sgt. Eric Baskette with the road safety unit.
“Unfortunately, our officers know all too well the tragic consequences that can occur when someone is not following the rules of the road which is why we are passionate about conducting these targeted operations,” he added.
RCMP are reminding the public of the rules of the road:
- Don’t use your cell phone at a red light. The law applies even when you’ve stopped at a red light or in bumper-to-bumper traffic.
- Keep your hands free. Hands-free means a Bluetooth, wired headset or speaker phone that can be operated with one touch or voice commands.
- If you have a Learner’s (L) or Novice (N) licence, you are not allowed to use any electronic devices such as a phone or GPS behind the wheel, for any purpose, even in hands-free mode.
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