Regina, Saskatchewan — Saskatchewan drivers have been a little more distracted than usual amid the pandemic, according to a new study by Saskatchewan Government Insurance.
Distracted driving was the focus of the June Traffic Safety Spotlight, where police across Saskatchewan issued 700 tickets for distracted driving. That included 605 drivers cited for using a cellphone while driving, and another 95 tickets for driving without due care and attention.
Distracted driving is a leading contributor to collisions and one of the top three factors in fatal collisions, says SGI. Additionally, Drivers who are texting are 23 times more likely to be in a collision than those who do not. There are many potential distractions for drivers but since most distracted driving tickets result from cell phone use, leaving your phone alone greatly increases your chances of not getting a ticket.
SGI also released a short YouTube video showing five things you can do with your phone before driving that will help you avoid getting distracted driving tickets:
- Place your cellphone is the backseat of your vehicle
- Leave your phone in a bag or purse
- Insert your cellphone into a secured phone holder/ mount
- Put your cellphone in the glove box
- Give your phone to another passenger in the vehicle
The July Traffic Safety Spotlight is conducted in construction zones. SGI joins law enforcement in reminding drivers to slow down and keep workers safe this construction season. Avoid distractions and be mindful of workers while you’re driving through construction zones this summer, says SGI.
