Victoria, British Columbia — The Insurance Corporation of British Columbia (ICBC) has released new statistics regarding a rise in distracted driving amongst BC drivers.
The survey reports that 43 percent of respondents have used their phones while driving at least one time over the past ten trips. This represents a rise from 33 percent of drivers admitting to the act in a similar 2019 version of the survey.
Despite this proclivity of the offences, drivers are aware of the risk of using their phones while driving, particularly regarding the risk of being pulled over by police. 73 percent of respondents admitted that it is likely that they would be caught while driving and using a cell phone.
Other key findings from the survey report include:
- 59 percent of drivers feel that it is ‘perfectly safe’ to talk on the phone, with 42 percent of drivers feeling that it is sometimes safe.
- 87 percent of respondents stated that they would feel ashamed if others knew that they drove while texting. 86 percent stated that they would feel embarrassed if people knew that they spoke on the phone while driving.
- Over the last month, 19 percent of BC drivers admitted to talking on the phone with a hands-free device, with 21 percent claiming to have texted while driving.
This reported rise in distracted driving coincides with provincial police data that shows that one in four fatal crashes are due to distracted driving, claiming the lives of 76 people within BC each year.
“When you’re driving, staying focused on the road should be your top priority,” said Lindsay Matthews, ICBC VP of customer experience & public affairs.
“No phone call or text is worth risking the safety of yourself and other road users. Set a positive example for those around you and take a break from your phone when you’re behind the wheel…We all play a role in creating safer roads for everyone.”
“Any loss of life due to distracted-driving related crashes is unacceptable,” stated Mike Farnworth, BC Minister of Public Safety and Solicitor General.
“There are no excuses for distracted driving, and there is no reason to check your phone… Drivers must prioritize safety over convenience when driving.”
To highlight and combat this issue, ICBC and BC police have launched a month-long campaign that asks drivers to ignore their phone while operating their vehicles. During the length of the campaign, police will be increasing enforcement of distracted driving. Community volunteers will also be performing ‘cell watch’ initiatives.
Neil Dubord, Traffic Safety committee chair and Chief Constable says that, “to ensure that we’re keeping our roadways safe for everyone, education and enforcement activities begin today throughout BC as part of our fall distracted driving campaign.”
“These police and community efforts are necessary as distracted driving continues to be one of the most dangerous driving behaviours impacting road safety in BC.”
What are your opinions on the finding of this report?
How can police and governing bodies help combat the prevalence of distracted driving?
