RCMP crack down on Kelowna drivers using cellphones
Officers in Kelowna were busy earlier this week handing out tickets for distracted driving, specifically drivers using their cellphones.
Kelowna RCMP officers set up an operation on Enterprise Way in Kelowna on Oct. 3 and in two hours 22 tickets were issued to drivers distracted by their phones and four tickets for driving without a seatbelt, according to an RCMP media release.
“There are endless and inexpensive options nowadays to ensure adherence with the use of electronic devices while driving laws, not to mention most vehicles now come standard with a bluetooth feature,” Kelowna RCMP Sgt. Colby Attlesey said in the release.
“It is unsafe and unacceptable that we are still catching so many drivers overtly using their phones while driving and we will continue to fine those that we do.”
The penalty for distracted driving is a fine of $368 and four driver penalty points.
This comes with the driver penalty point premium which has to be paid by drivers that have four or more points on their driving record at the end of a 12-month period. A risk premium might be tacked onto that if a driver gets more than one distracted driving ticket within three years.
Drivers with a Learner’s or Novice license aren’t allowed any electronic devices behind the wheel no matter the purpose, even if it’s in “hands-free” mode.
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