North Cowichan/Duncan RCMP is making distracted driving enforcement a priority, consistent with the aims of local and provincial governments.
North Cowichan/Duncan RCMP conducted a distracted driving project from 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Nov. 15 that resulted in numerous violations.
The team of officers conducted enforcement in six different locations around the North Cowichan and Duncan area, utilizing plainclothes officers to identify offenders, according to a press release from Cpl. Cari Loughheed, a media relations officer with the detachment.
“As I was a plainclothes spotter, I had the chance to speak to many members of the motoring public,” noted Cpl. Jean Gelderblom. “Their response was overwhelmingly positive, they were very happy to see us dealing with distracted drivers, and several insisted on shaking my hand.
“About a dozen people tried to give me money, and I had the chance to speak to them about the realities/consequences of panhandling.”
A total of 37 violation tickets were issued for distracted driving during the project, five for failing to wear seatbelt, one prohibited driver, one for panhandling and two written warnings.
“The motoring public can expect to see more projects focused on dealing with drivers who continue to use their hand held devices while driving or while stopped at intersections,” pointed out Lougheed.
“The fine for distracted driving under the Motor Vehicle Act is $368 and four points on your driver’s license. Save your money, save a life, leave your cell phone alone.”