File Photo (Image Credit: CFJC Today)

By James Peters

Driving Violations

Kamloops RCMP crack down on distracted drivers, speeders through West Victoria construction zone

Mar 5, 2020 | 3:22 PM

KAMLOOPS — Kamloops RCMP traffic members will devote much of their energy this month cracking down on distracted drivers.

March has been designated an awareness month for distracted driving, and Kamloops RCMP spokesperson Cpl. Jodi Shelkie says the problem is as bad as ever, despite the risk of death or serious injury and the prospect of receiving a very steep fine.

“Distracted driving continues to be a serious issue in British Columbia. It’s the number one cause of crashes and claims an average of 76 lives each year in B.C.,” said Shelkie.

“It can be up to $620 for your first violation ticket if you’re caught using your cellphone, and for your second ticket… it’s more than $2,500.”

Officers conducted an operation along Victoria Street West last Friday (Feb. 28). They handed out six tickets for distracted driving in a two-hour span.

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But Shelkie notes of even greater concern is the number of people caught speeding through the reduced speed zone in the area.

“[Officers] also issued 30 violation tickets for speeding in a construction zone,” she noted. “So we just want to remind people that is still a construction zone. There’s a sign up there saying it’s a construction zone and the speed limit is only 30 kilometres-per-hour.”