During two separate blitzes, Kelowna RCMP traffic officers stopped more than 80 drivers allegedly using an electronic device while driving.
The patrols were on Friday Nov. 25. In about four and a half hours Kelowna RCMP Municipal Traffic Section officers issued 64 fines, 46 of them for the use of an electronic device while driving. The remainder were for vehicle defects, failing to wear seat belts or not possessing a valid driver’s licence.
“Our traffic enforcement officers were surprised when, within a one hour period, they issued three distracted driving violation tickets, to three different drivers each operating a company vehicle and all of whom were employed by the same Kelowna-based business,” Cpl. Jesse O’Donaghey said in a press release.
On Nov. 22 the RCMP Central Okanagan Traffic Services targeted distracted drivers. During a nearly three hour period officers handed out 36 tickets to drivers for the illegal use of an electronic device while behind the wheel.
“The fine for using an electronic device while driving remains at $368,” O’Donaghey said. “By taking your attention off the roadway for even just a moment you greatly increase the chance of being involved in a collision.”