FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Monday, May 16, 2016 10:00 am
(Ottawa) – As part of the Provincial Drive Safe! Campaign, Ottawa Police Service Traffic Unit officers conducted a one day city wide enforcement blitz on Friday morning, targeting drivers using cell phones.
In total, 76 Provincial Offence Notices (PON) were issued for handheld communication device 6 PONs for red light running and 34 other HTA offences. The fine for handheld communication device is $490 and three demerit points.
“The theme of this campaign is risk takers meet undertakers,” said Ottawa Police Traffic Escort Sergeant Edward Yeoumans. “We want drivers to get the message that driving requires your full attention and risky behaviours compromise everyone’s safety on the road. Drive responsibly.”
In the 2015 Public Survey, distracted driving was listed as the number one concern of residents.
Everyone has a role to play in preventing texting or talking while driving.
- Drivers can simply put the phone away while driving;
- Passengers can remind drivers to focus on their driving if they reach for the phone;
- Children can remind parents not to drive distracted;
- Phone users can first ensure that the person they are calling or texting isn’t driving. If they are, tell them to wait until they can safely talk or text.
You can take the pledge not to text and drive at https://leavethephonealone.ca/pledge.php
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