In September, authorities in Metro Vancouver are cracking down on distracted driving, aiming to change behaviors on the road.
Surrey Police and ICBC have launched a targeted campaign named Operation Hang Up to educate and enforce distracted driving laws. Despite strict regulations against using handheld phones while driving for over 15 years in British Columbia, some drivers admit to still engaging in this dangerous behavior.
While enforcement blitzes have resulted in hefty fines and penalties for offenders, many drivers confess to continuing to use their phones while driving, citing the difficulty of breaking the habit. Other distractions like applying makeup, eating, or even high-tech features in modern vehicles also contribute to unsafe driving practices.
Last week, the Richmond RCMP conducted a one-day enforcement blitz that led to significant fines and warnings issued to drivers caught using electronic devices. Authorities emphasize the importance of increased visibility and strict enforcement in deterring distracted driving, which remains a major cause of serious collisions in the region.