Leave your phone alone.
That was the message on St. Patrick's Day, March 17, as Ridge Meadows RCMP officers, volunteers, ICBC Road Safety personnel, and a special guest leprechaun, were out conducting enforcement and education about distracted driving in Pitt Meadows and Maple Ridge.
The “Don’t Press Your Luck” campaign was aimed at reminding motorists about the dangers of distracted driving and bringing attention to distracted driving awareness and enforcement Month in B.C.
During the course of the campaign, officers and volunteers checked over 2,500 vehicles for speed, distracted driving, and other motor vehicle act infractions. A number of violation tickets were issued for use of electronic device and speeding, seatbelt infractions, and other traffic offences.
“While most motorists were focused on the roadway, our officers did observe a number of drivers being distracted by their electronic devices at intersections,” said Cpl. Eric Obermayer, with the Ridge Meadows RCMP Road Safety Target Team. “Our officers will continue these enforcement efforts throughout the month with the goal to encourage drivers and pedestrians to keep our roads and communities safe.”
“Distracted driving is a serious problem in our province, causing an average of 79 deaths annually,” said Kate Woochuk, ICBC road safety and community coordinator. “Please give the road your full attention and set yourself up for zero distractions. Keep your phone out of sight, program your GPS before driving and mute notifications. Together we can create safer roads for everyone.”
For more information on distracted driving please visit ICBC.com
