Distracted Driving the Second Leading Cause of Car Crash Fatalities
A recent study in British Columbia shows that distracted driving using technology (including calling, texting, reading, or using social media) is responsible for one in four deaths from motor vehicle accidents, making distracted driving the second leading cause of car crash fatalities in British Columbia. In addition, distracted driving has been found to account for the majority of rear-end vehicle collisions.
The provincial government and police services are reacting to this new trend by increasing the amount of cell watch volunteers. Additionally, the Province is contemplating increasing fines for drivers caught using their phones. Currently, the average fine for distracted driving in British Columbia is $167.00. Ontario recently passed legislation increasing distracted driving fines to a maximum of $1,000.00.
Ultimately, it is important that drivers be careful while driving and avoid using their cell phones to lessen preventable accidents.