Every year, an average of 76 people die in fatal motor vehicle collisions in B.C. because the driver was distracted or not paying attention.
September marks the month that police across B.C. participate in a distracted driving and occupant restraint enforcement campaign, intensifying enforcement measures.
According to provincial data, distracted driving is responsible for more than 25 per cent of all car crash fatalities and is the second leading cause of fatal collisions in B.C.
Distracted driving is more than just using an electronic device but also includes other distractions such as personal grooming, eating/drinking, reading, insecure pets, other passengers and not knowing your route.
"It all starts with you," says Chief Superintendent Holly Turton of BC Highway Patrol.
"Ask yourself if it is worth your life or someone else’s to answer a call, check your email or send that text while you are driving. Please make the right choice when you drive – ignore your phone and drive responsibly – your life may depend on it – and others may depend on you to get to your destination safely," he added.
The fines for distracted driving start at $368 and four penalty points, plus a driver risk premium assessed by ICBC.
