Eyes on the road, hands on the steering wheel
In February 2012, on the second anniversary of the distracted driving law, police will be focusing on enforcement of driver behaviour that takes attention from the road, such as texting while driving, or putting on makeup. In 2011, distracted driving was a contributing factor in almost half of all collisions in the RCMP policed areas in the Lower Mainland according to superintendent Norm Gaumont, head of traffic services for the Lower Mainland District Regional Police Service.
This month, police on Bowen Island will conduct an awareness and enforcement campaign. Police will be on the lookout for distracted driving behaviours commonly seen such as:
- Texting while driving
- Talking on a hand-held cell phone while driving
- Putting on makeup while driving
- Reading a newspaper or book while driving
If drivers need to make a phone call on a cellular phone or check email, they are advised to use a hands free device, or pull their vehicle over.
The fine for using an electronic device without hands-free while driving is $167. Moreover, drivers caught texting or emailing may receive three Driver Penalty Points (DPP) 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 DPP for violating the Distracted Driving Legislation.
Cpl Nancy Joyce
Bowen Island RCMP
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