Road safety
Distracted driving
Even if you're not using your phone, you may still be distracted.
We all play a part in making our roads safe – when you're behind the wheel, focus on the road.
If you're looking at your phone, you can't see the road
Anything that takes your attention away from driving can contribute to distracted driving. Even when stopped, checking an electronic device affects your focus. You’re 3.6 times more likely to crash if you’re using your hand-held phone.
Plan ahead to keep your focus on the road
Get directions and program your navigation before you start driving. Use audio instructions rather than looking at screens.
Select and program your playlists in advance.
Turn your phone to silent or set it to automatically enter “driving mode” or “Do not disturb while driving”.
Keep your phone out of sight by putting it in the glove box or center console.
Make sure you have everything you need before hitting the road. Pull over when safe to do so if necessary - reaching for objects on the floor, in the glove box, or the back seat takes your eyes off the road and could lead to a crash.
#LeaveYourPhoneAlone #EyesFwdBC
Learn the rules of the road
Don't use your cellphone at a red light. The law applies even when you're stopped at a red light or in bumper-to-bumper traffic.
Keep your hands free.Hands-free means a Bluetooth, wired headset or speakerphone that can be operated with one touch or voice commands.
If you have a Learner's (L) or Novice (N) licence, you aren't allowed to use any electronic devices (like phone or GPS) behind the wheel, for any purpose, even in hands-free mode.
Make sure you understand the law on how to use electronic devices while driving.
The cost of distracted driving
Every ticket for distracted driving includes a fine of $368 and four driver penalty points.
If you have four or more points on your driving record at the end of a 12-month period, you pay a driver penalty point (DPP) premium. You may also have to pay a driver risk premium if you get more than one distracted driving ticket in a three-year period.
Show your support
You can help make our streets and communities safer by encouraging others to leave their phone alone behind the wheel.
Get a distracted driving sticker and show your support. They are available at participating ICBC Driver Licensing and Autoplan broker offices.
You can also place a bulk order for distracted driving stickers to share in your community.
