SGI is highlighting the dangers of distracted driving. (Cam Lee/northeastNOW)

By Cam Lee

SGI traffic spotlight

Focus on distracted drivers in March

Feb 28, 2019 | 11:47 AM

The traffic safety spotlight in March is on distracted driving.

SGI said in a news release that 87 people lost their vehicle for a week because of cell phone tickets last year, the most SGI has seen since distracting driving laws were put into place in 2010.

Cell phone tickets cost $280, and under the Traffic Safety Act, receiving a second cell phone ticket within a year triggers an immediate roadside vehicle impoundment. The owner is then billed for towing and storage, in addition to having the vehicle impounded for seven days.

According to SGI, driver distraction or inattention is consistently a leading factor in collisions, injuries and fatalities on the province’s roads and highways.

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SGI has also put together a series of videos on the issue, speaking with a “reformed distracted driver” about her experience.

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cam.lee@jpbg.ca