The BC Highway Patrol is tightening its focus on seatbelt use and distracted driving this month for its Distracted Driver and Occupant Restraint enforcement campaign.
Every March and September, police across the province participate in the campaign, aiming to see every driver buckled up with their eyes on the road, while handing out hefty fines to those who don’t.
According to data from ICBC, an average of 78 people die annually as a result of distracted driving, which Vince Leblanc with the BC Highway Patrol in Nelson reminds is more than just using a cell phone.
“Even the simple act of touching the phone, whether it’s in your hand or on your lap, contravenes the legislation. So, if you’re driving along and you’re the type of person who puts the phone between your legs or underneath one leg while you’re driving, every minute it’s there, you’re breaking the law.”
Driving while wearing headphones also contravenes the law, with Leblanc stating motorists are only permitted to have one earbud in while they’re behind the wheel, or they could be ticketed for more than just distracted driving.
“If you have headphones or earmuffs on, it’s not only distracted driving, but it’s also driving without due care and attention because you need to focus your attention— all of your senses need to be used to drive. Otherwise, you’re driving without due care.”
Both distracted driving and failing to wear occupant restraints are leading causes of motor vehicle fatalities in BC.
Motorists found guilty of distracted driving will be handed a $368 fine. Those who receive a second distracted driving infraction within the same year face a licence suspension from RoadSafetyBC.
In addition to distracted driving, Leblanc said police will be on the lookout for proper use of occupant restraints, which Leblanc emphasized includes passengers as well.
“When it comes to occupant restraints such as seat belts, booster seats, or baby seats in the vehicle, the fine is $167. Even if you have the seat belt under your arm, you’re in contravention of the law because the seat belt not only has to be on, but it also has to be properly adjusted.”
Motorists can expect to see an increase in BC Highway Patrol members on the roads this month, cracking down on seatbelt and cell phone use with the goal of keeping highways safe.
“Use common sense while driving and watch what you’re doing. Anything could happen at any time. With any of our highway campaigns, the overall goal is safe highways, safe drivers, and reducing fatalities and serious injuries on our highways here in British Columbia.”
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