Burnaby drivers should take note that the RCMP will have a targeted distracted driving enforcement campaign this month.
According to an RCMP press release, in 2012, 30 per cent of motor vehicle fatalities involved distracted driving and 37 per cent of serious motor vehicle injuries involved distracted driving.
Since the implementation of legislation banning the use of handheld devices in January 2010, police in British Columbia have issued 105,972 violation tickets for use of handheld electronic devices.
"In the month of February, police across B.C. will be targeting drivers who operate vehicles while using a handheld device," said Cpl. Robert McDonald of B.C. RCMP Traffic Services.
"Holding a cell phone in your hand on speaker phone is an offence . and could result in a fine of $167. This also applies to leaving the cellphone on your console and typing while stopped in traffic."
Graduated License Program drivers (L and N drivers) are not permitted use of any electronic devices, including hands-free devices.
McDonald said drivers who are observed to contravene other rules of the road while using a handheld device can also be charged with driving without due care and attention, which carries a fine of $368. Offences that put others at risk, including speeding, unsafe lane changes, following too close, and failure to obey traffic control device will trigger the increased penalty.
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