West Shore RCMP deem distracted driving campaign a ‘disappointing success’

West Shore RCMP deemed their distracted driving campaign to be a ‘disappointing success’ after it ended with dozens of violation tickets and warnings. 

On the afternoon of Thursday, July 25th, West Shore RCMP collaborated with ICBC and BC Highway Patrol to remind drivers to stay focused on the road and avoid distractions using a distracted driving campaign. 

According to a recent media release, this campaign was widely advertised in advance, warning motorists on the radio and news as to where officers were going to be stationed. 

Additionally, they posted ‘no distracted driving’ signage up and down Veterans Memorial Parkway and on Highway digital billboards in the area. 

Officers and volunteers were stationed at three locations along Veterans Memorial Parkway throughout the duration of the distracted driving campaign—chosen for its high volume of traffic during the afternoon hours.

“Distracted driving is one of the leading contributing factors to fatal collisions in BC West Shore RCMP reached out to us to help them educate the public in this campaign,” said Colleen Woodger, ICBC Road Safety Coordinator.

“We posted the signage and had volunteers keep track of vehicles driving by where the driver was distracted and using a cell phone.”

In just under four hours, police said they issued 30 tickets and 18 written warnings for distracted driving, as well as 6 tickets and 3 warnings for other driver offences.

“Drivers would have passed by numerous signs warning them against distracted driving before being pulled over by police,” said Cst. Sean Van Londersele, West Shore RCMP Traffic Unit.

“We were disappointed in the high number of tickets we issued for distracted driving. We had hoped the number would have been much less.”

In BC, use of an electronic device while driving can result in a $368 ticket and four penalty points against the driver’s licence under the Motor Vehicle Act.

For new drivers with their L or N, the penalties can be stricter—including diving prohibitions. 

“We have always taken a zero-tolerance approach to distracted driving, and it needs to stop,” said Mike Farnworth, Minister of Public Safety and Solicitor General. 

“When, not if, you are caught using your cellphone while you drive, the consequences are steep. Don’t put yourself or others at risk—follow the rules of the road.”

West Shore RCMP concluded their release by saying that there will be more campaigns like this in the future.