BC Highway Patrol to charge hefty fines for distracted driving, no seatbelts

FORT ST. JOHN, B.C. — The BC Highway Patrol will be charging drivers with hefty fines if found driving while distracted or not wearing a seatbelt. 

As per a press release by BC Highway Patrol on February 25th, March has been considered as the month for both distracted driving and occupant restraint campaigns across B.C. 

According to RoadSafetyBC, distracted driving is one of the top three causes of collisions causing serious injuries and fatalities in the province including impaired driving and speeding. 

Unrestrained occupants, those not wearing seatbelts, are the leading cause of injuries and death in collisions, the release stated. 

In rural areas, seatbelt safety is still an issue, while people in the city have trouble with complex car seat rules. 

Inspector Brian Donaldson of BC Highway Patrol, said: “We’re asking every driver to put the phone out of temptation’s reach, buckle up and make sure you’re using an appropriate car seat for your children.

“Do you really need to use your GPS to navigate on your way home from work? Is it more important to scroll through your playlist rather than pay attention at traffic light crosswalks?” 

The following are some of the violation tickets drivers could face face in March: 

• Use of an electronic device while driving – $368
• Use of an electronic device while driving in violation of restrictions (new drivers) – $368
• Failing to wear a seatbelt – $167
• Operation of a vehicle with an inoperative seatbelt – $167
• Unrestrained or improperly restrained child – $109 

“Now that commuters are getting this advance warning, there should be no excuses,” said Donaldson. “If you don’t want to follow the law, then education through enforcement is coming.”