Distracted driving continues to be a major problem for Canada. On the east coast, Ontario is reporting that distracted driving is the leading cause of road deaths for the fourth consecutive year. News on the west coast is no different. To date, distracted driving contributes to more than one quarter of all car crash fatalities in B.C..
What’s so perplexing, is that while it continues to be a leading cause of automobile related accidents and fatalities, it is one of the most preventable. All that it takes to solve this nationwide epidemic, is awareness.
The startling statistics have prompted the provincial government, police departments across the province, and the Insurance Corporation of British Columbia (ICBC) to join forces in March to raise awareness of the dangers and consequences of distracted driving.
To help make the driving public more conscious of the concern, Park Insurance is sharing ICBC’s recently released infographic, detailing everything that you need to know before you get behind the wheel.
What You Need to Know About the Distracted Driving Epidemic in British Columbia
There are a few additional things you need to be aware of. View our list of the most common driver diversions. However, some distractions are not as obvious as others. For instance, many drivers assume that using hands-free internet-enabled devices is a much safer alternative for carrying on conversations. This may come as a surprise, but it can be equally distracting because this virtual environment causes you to visually imagine what you’re talking about, removing your concentration from where it needs to be. Other less-common distractions include conversations with your passengers, adjusting settings (seating, temperature, music, etc.) within the vehicle, and even negative thoughts. View more on unanticipated driver distractions.
Regardless of your renewed awareness, you cannot assume that other drivers who share the road will follow suit. Make sure that you’re fully prepared by reviewing your automobile insurance coverage. Contact Park Insurance to learn more.