New distracted driving fines hit today

Jun 1, 2016 | 6:12 AM

VANCOUVER — Tough new distracted driving penalties come into effect across the province today.

Motorists caught not paying attention behind the wheel will face a minimum fine of 368 dollars plus another 175 dollars for four penalty points they’ll receive with the ticket.

The fine will jump to 888 dollars if a second offence happens within 12 months and repeat offenders could lose their licences for three to 12 months.

RCMP say officers handed out 264 tickets to distracted drivers over the Victoria Day long weekend, up from 199 violations during the same weekend last year.