April was Distracted Driving Month, and the RCMP targeted enforcement to help stop this dangerous driving behaviour. With support from Manitoba Public Insurance, the Manitoba RCMP conducted an enhanced distracted driving enforcement campaign, focussing primarily on handheld electronic device use while driving.
During the month-long campaign, RCMP officers handed out 310 tickets to drivers under Section 215.1(2) of the HTA (Use a handheld electronic device while driving). Two of those drivers were also found to be impaired by alcohol. This is an increase from the 175 cell phone tickets handed out during the April 2016 campaign.
Distracted driving reduces driver awareness and decision-making abilities, and remains a primary cause of traffic collisions in Manitoba. It also carries a $203.80 fine and will result in five demerits upon conviction.
The RCMP would like to remind motorists to keep their eyes on the road and hands on the wheel - put your focus where it should be so everyone can get home safely.
