The province has launched an online survey that asks residents if they think current distracted driving laws - a $167 fine and three driver's licence demerit points - are tough enough. Distracted driving behaviour, such as talking on a cell, is the second-leading contributing factor in motor vehicle deaths in B.C. Last year, police handed out 55,100 tickets to drivers caught using an electronic device; however, it's estimated 9,500 drivers in B.C. are using these devices at any given time. Ontario recently introduced the stiffest distracted driving penalties in the country: $1,000 is now the maximum fine there. Should B.C. follow suit?
Byron Schlegel North Vancouver "Yes. The demerits are a huge deterrent. I think that's (a $1,000 fine) a little much."
Ed Dunn North Vancouver "Yes. I think it could be double that ($167 fine), but I'm not sure there is a way to stop people from breaking the law."
Katie Titosky North Vancouver "Yes. I think it would be more of a deterrent. I know my friend in Alberta got a ticket for $260 (for distracted driving), and that makes me not want to do it."
Ranald MacDonald North Vancouver "No. The onus is on them (the drivers) to not be distracted. It's just common sense."
Suzy Wilson North Vancouver "No. I don't think it should be stiffer because it won't deter people. Sadly, everybody does it (distracted driving)."
