If you're driving, it's time to put the phone down.
For the month of September Coquitlam RCMP officers - both plainclothes and uniformed officers - are cracking down on distracted drivers.
"Distracted driving remains a major cause of crash-related serious injuries and deaths," said Cpl. Neil Roemer of Coquitlam RCMP's Traffic Services in a release. "We are going to be creative when conducting our enforcement. Dressing up as pedestrians and driving unmarked vehicles are just some of the things we do to keep distracted drivers guessing."
Kathleen Nadalin, an ICBC road-safety co-ordinator, said distracted drivers have slower reaction times and are four times more likely to crash if driving while on the phone.
In an enforcement campaign last year Coquitlam RCMP issued 552 provincial charges related to using an electronic device while driving - almost double the number of tickets given out during the 2012 campaign.
Police also debunked several cell phone myths:
"I can call or text when I'm stopped at a red light." Actually, no you can't. The law applies even when you're stopped at a red light or in a traffic jam.
"Using my phone isn't that dangerous." Using an electronic device while driving is the third leading cause of crash fatalities in B.C. Between 2008 and 2012, 31 people died in the Lower Mainland due to distracted driving-related crashes.
"I'm a good driver so I can multitask." Even good drivers need to concentrate on the road at all times to be ready for the unexpected, such as a child running out between parked cars.
"It's okay to use other features on my phone while driving." It's not just talking on the phone that's not allowed. Checking voice mail, making music selections, programming a GPS or other uses are all no-nos. In fact, you're not even allowed to hold your phone in your hand while driving.
"Emergency calls are okay." Calling 911 to report an emergency is allowed under the law. Personal emergencies, however, are not.
"Using the speakerphone is allowed." Not always. Drivers in the Graduated Licensing Program are not allowed to use any personal electronic devices, even hands-free or speakerphone. Drivers outside of the GLP are allowed to use hands-free devices but the phone must be secured - in your lap or on the seat beside you is not allowed.
