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New Tactics To Catch Distracted Drivers

Mar 21, 2018 | 5:25 PM

Photo: One of the vehicles utilized by the Kelowna RCMP Municipal Traffic Section to spot distracted drivers in Kelowna. The vehicle includes a sign which reads “VAN 4 HIRE (#$) 250-368-214.2(1) MVA.” The number 368 represents the fine amount, along with 214.2(1) which represents the section of the Motor Vehicle Act for using an electronic device while driving.


RCMP in the Kelowna area have been trying out new methods to catch drivers using cell phones and other electronic devices.

Cpl. Jesse O’Donaghey says plain clothes officers have been on the streets working as spotters, and unmarked vehicles have been used to pull alongside other motorists.

If they see cases of distracted driving, they contact a uniformed officer, who then makes the traffic stop.

“We want the motoring public to remain focused on their surroundings at all times, especially when stopped in traffic, and wonder whether or not the man or woman in the vehicle beside them could be a traffic cop searching for distracted drivers,” says Sgt. Mark Booth NCO In-Charge of the Kelowna RCMP Municipal Traffic Section.

Close to 300 violation tickets have been issued this month, each costing 368 dollars plus four penalty points.