U.S.Study on Cell Phones and Driving Not the Big Picture
By 250 News
Tuesday, February 02, 2010 09:51 AM
Prince George, B.C.- Although a U.S. study indicates there is no change in the number of collision claims following the banning of use of electronic devices while driving, the B.C. Superintendent of Motor Vehicles stands behind the new legislation in this Province.
Steve Martin, says B.C.’s new law is meant to prevent injuries or death “I can tell you each year, 117 people are killed, another 1400 will be taken to hospital with injuries and driver distraction is involved in a majority of those cases.”
Martin says the U.S. study (reported on Opinion250 on Monday) is just one study “My staff have combed through thousands of studies and the convergence of evidence is that this (using an electronic device) is a highly risky activity.”
As of Monday, police are no longer issuing warnings about the use of electronic devices while driving and will be handing out tickets. The fine is $167 dollars, and in some cases could add three penalty points or lead to the loss of your driver’s license.
“What we’re after is better outcomes, 117 people killed, 1400 taken to hospital, that’s what we’re trying to make a dint in with this new law.”
Just ten days before the end of the warning period, a survey in downtown Prince George found just three of more than 300 drivers were using their cell phones while driving.
Martin says those drivers aged 16-24 are way over represented in fatality and injury crashes, “Surprisingly we see people taking risks at all ages.” When it comes to seniors behind the wheel, Martin says there are a few urban myths, “There are people medically compromised which would make them unsafe at any age. As people get older, their medical conditions may increase. We see people driving safely well into their 80’s, but they are lucky enough to be in good health.”
Previous Story - Next Story
Email
Print
Facebook
Twitter
Digg
Del.icio.usReturn to Home
Posted by: billposer on February 2 2010 11:29 AM