April is Distracted Driving Awareness Month, but after the first week of targeted enforcement it’s clear the message of driving distraction-free is being left unread.
The Thunder Bay Police Service’s Traffic Unit organized multiple targeted traffic enforcement blitzes in various locations of the city last week. Due to a snowstorm and a shortened holiday week, the enforcement efforts were scaled back.
Despite that fact, the results of Week 1 were extraordinary: 123 Distracted Driving fines. The value of fines issued totals nearly $75,000.
Officers used unique strategies during their enforcement efforts. This included using unmarked police vehicles, pickup trucks, and city buses to help spot drivers who attempt to covertly use their cellphones while they drive.
Distracted driving is one of the leading causes of fatal traffic collisions. According to the Traffic Injury Research Foundation, in 2019 fatal collision involving distracted driving had begun to surpass those caused by impaired driving in some parts of Canada.
Unfortunately, for too many, safety isn’t as important as the latest viral trend dominating their TikTok ‘for you’ recommendations feed. For those people, the TBPS Traffic Unit is changing its approach and instead highlighting the financial costs of a distracted driving fine.
This month the TBPS Traffic Unit launched its social media awareness campaign – That Text Will Cost You. The campaign highlights some of the financial burdens that accompanies a distracted driving fine. This includes:
• $615 for the fine itself
• $281 licence reinstatement fee (required due to the three-day licence suspension for distracted driving)
• Various costs associated with arranging transportation during a three-day licence suspension (bus fare, taxi/ ride share fees, etc.)
• A potential insurance adjustment of $1,400 - $3,500 annually
The bottom line is, the cost of driving distracted isn’t worth any text or social media meme. Take care of your cellphone needs before and after you drive, not during.
The Thunder Bay Police Service would like to thank all the motorists who continue to drive with care, while sober, and distraction free.
VIDEO: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yLjkZCl06iw&feature=youtu.be