Distracted driving is a significant issue on B.C. roads
On Behalf of Porter Ramsay LLP | Apr, 01, 2022 | Personal Injury Law
Distracted driving is among the leading causes of serious car accidents in British Columbia. Increased use of mobile devices is making this issue into a more serious one. New polling data released by ICBC shows the extent of distracted driving in B.C., as well as some information on the awareness drivers have about this issue. Here are some of the main insights from the ICBC data:
- Occasional distracted driving is not uncommon: 42% of drivers polled say they use their phone once every 10 trips or more despite most of them knowing the risks.
- However, drivers are aware of the risks: 93% of drivers know it’s dangerous to text while driving, and 84% of drivers also identified holding a phone to talk while driving as risky.
- ICBC data validates this perception: According to the provincial insurers, one fourth of fatalities on B.C. roads are caused by distracted driving. In fact, it is the second-highest factor in deaths on B.C. roads, with impaired driving being the leading cause and speeding being third.
Use of mobile phones is the most common form of distracted driving, and it receives a great deal of attention from those looking to curb this issue. However, any activity that could take a driver’s attention away from the road or impact their focus is risky. According to ICBC, approximately 76 people die due to distracted driving each year, and many more are injured in related accidents. Individuals who have been harmed in a car accident can most likely benefit from speaking with a lawyer about seeking proper compensation and damages.