Dear Editor,
I believe the government needs to better enforce the current laws of driving while using a mobile phone. Every year more than 1.3 million crashes in North America are caused by cell phone distraction. Drivers talking or texting on their cellphones are about six times more likely to cause an accident than driving intoxicated.
If the police started pulling more people over, there would be fewer accidents. Perhaps the police could use technology to track if the phone is in use.
Many people in British Columbia are not aware that it is illegal to use your mobile device while driving and if it was more enforced then more people would be exposed and actually know that it is the law and that it is very dangerous.
The fine in B.C is only $167 and three demerits, which is one of the lowest in Canada. If B.C. increased fines like Prince Edward Island did this summer (their fine is now $500-$1,200 with five demerits) perhaps it would deter more people.
I believe this is an issue that needs more attention so that we can reduce the number of accidents caused by distracted drivers.
Samantha Trueman
Richmond
