RCMP in North District Traffic Services are cracking down on drivers who are distracted on the road.
Despite the new legislation, police have noticed more drivers taking chances talking and texting while driving, so the focus during February will be watching for those who continue to ignore the new driving laws.
RCMP Sgt. Pat McTiernan said throughout B.C. in 2010 there were 104 collision fatalities related to distracted driving which included 15 in North District, 14 in Vancouver Island District, 45 in Lower Mainland District and 30 in the Southeast District.
"If drivers need to make a phone call on a cellular phone or check e-mail, they are advised to use a hands free device, or pull their vehicle over." McTiernan said.
"You really have ask yourself how important that message or conversation is. Is it important enough to endanger yourself or others? Furthermore are you willing to pay $167 for that call?"
The fine for using an electronic device without hands-free while driving is $167. Drivers caught texting or emailing may receive three driver penalty points in addition to the fine.
Drivers in the Graduated Licensing Program (GLP) are not permitted to use any prescribed electronic device, even if it is hands-free. GLP drivers will receive the $167 fine and three driver penalty points for violating the Distracted Driving Legislation.
Enforcement teams throughout the north will be using innovative techniques to monitor drivers who persist in driving while being distracted in the performance of some other activity.
