Each March and September, ICBC, local police, community volunteers, and the B.C. government partner in a province‑wide effort to raise awareness about the dangers of distracted driving.
Distracted driving remains one of the leading contributors to fatal crashes in British Columbia, putting drivers, passengers, pedestrians, and cyclists at risk.
Why Distracted Driving Matters
- Distracted driving is a major issue in B.C. and one of the top contributing factors in fatal crashes.
- When drivers are distracted, their reaction time slows, and they may miss critical road cues - such as traffic signals, pedestrians, or cyclists.
- Setting up for a distraction‑free drive helps keep everyone safer. This includes putting your phone away and setting GPS or music before you start driving.
Key Statistics (BC)
- 80 people are killed and 4,833 are injured each year in distracted‑driving related crashes.
- 37% of all police‑reported injury crashes involve distracted driving.
- 39% of distracted‑driving crashes happen at intersections.
- Males account for 61% of distracted drivers in police‑reported crashes.
- You’re 3.6 times more likely to crash when using your phone while driving.
Learner and Novice Drivers
- Drivers in the Graduated Licensing Program (learners and novices) are prohibited from using any form of electronic device while driving. This means a distracted driving fine will usually be accompanied by another ticket for driving contrary to restriction, which carries another three penalty points. Both fines carry a combined seven penalty points, which means there is a strong chance the driver will be prohibited from driving for three to eight months.
- A learner driver can retake the knowledge test(s) to regain their learner licence. A novice licence driver doesn’t need to retake a knowledge test to reinstate their licence but will need to remain a novice licence holder for another two years after their licence is reinstated before they’re eligible to take a class 5 or 6 licence road test.
Tips for a Safer, Distraction‑Free Drive
- Turn off your phone or use “Do Not Disturb” mode.
- Store your phone out of reach (glove box, console, trunk).
- Plan your route before driving - set GPS, review directions.
- Pull over safely if adjustments are needed.
Please visit the ICBC website for more information on Distracted Driving
