By Jeff Nagel, Black Press
Police and ICBC are launching a month-long campaign to deter distracted driving, the third leading cause of fatal car crashes in the province after speed and impaired driving.
Driver distraction is blamed as a factor in 91 fatalities province-wide each year. Transportation ministry officials estimate drivers are four times likelier to crash when talking on a hand-held phone while driving and 23 times more likely to be in a crash if texting.
Enforcement by officers handing out $167 fines will be stepped up throughout September, according to police.
“Driving is a complex task that requires your full attention,” ICBC interim president Mark Blucher said. “When you’re distracted behind the wheel your reaction time is significantly reduced. Distracted driving is a common cause of rear-end crashes and injuries – there is no safe following distance when your mind is not on the road.”
