Simulator demonstrates impact of distractions
British Columbia, the Insurance Corporation of British Columbia (ICBC) and B.C. police are midway through a month-long distracted driving campaign using a driving simulator to demonstrate the impact of distractions behind the wheel.
Distracted driving is the third leading cause of fatal car crashes in B.C., trailing behind speed and impaired driving, according to the ICBC. On average, 91 people are killed each year in B.C. due to driver distractions, such as using a hand-held electronic device behind the wheel.
“You’re four times more likely to crash when talking on a hand-held phone behind the wheel, and 23 times more likely to get in a crash if you text while driving,” said Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure Todd Stone.
Police are stepping up enforcement across the province and will be checking for distracted drivers throughout September.
