Fall campaign against distracted driving kicks off in Richmond

Richmond

2024-09-17 13:16 PDT

September marks the launch of a province-wide campaign against distracted driving, and Richmond RCMP is urging all Richmond residents to keep their phones put away and focus on the road. This initiative, in collaboration with ICBC, is aimed at raising awareness of the dangers of distracted driving, a leading factor in many motor vehicle collisions across the province.

Distracted and inattentive driving contributes significantly to crashes, causing an average of 78 deaths and 5,788 police-reported injuries across British Columbia each year. To combat this, Richmond RCMP is joining police throughout B.C. to increase enforcement measures throughout September. Officers will also collaborate with community volunteers and partner agencies in joint operations and education initiatives to remind drivers to keep their phones off while driving.

Driving requires full attention, and by avoiding distractions, everyone can play a part in reducing collisions and making roads safer. Whether checking a text at a stoplight or glancing at a notification, taking your eyes off the road, even briefly, can lead to dangerous consequences.

How to stay focused on the road:

• Turn off notifications or activate Do Not Disturb mode when driving.
• Keep your phone out of reach by placing it in the glove box or console.
• Plan your route ahead of time to avoid needing to check your phone for directions.
• Set realistic travel times to reduce the temptation of multitasking.

The cost of distracted driving:

Getting caught using a device wile driving results in a $368 fine and four penalty points. You may also face increased insurance premiums.

By taking steps to reduce the risk of distracted driving, we can work together to prevent collisions and save lives. To learn more about distracted driving laws and ways to stay safe, visit the ICBC website or the Government of British Columbia.

Released by:

Email: richmond_media@rcmp-grc.gc.ca
Website: richmond.rcmp.ca

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