The RCMP have coined the phrase “leave the phone alone” and started a campaign to educate drivers on this deadly distraction. Here is an excerpt from their webpage.
You may think it’s no big deal: checking your makeup, sending a quick text, or having a snack while driving. But the truth is, distracted driving is as dangerous as driving impaired. A driver using a hand-held device is four times more likely to be in a crash causing injury. For your safety, and the safety of others, it’s time to take a stand.
“Leave the Phone Alone” is a social media campaign encouraging Canadians to publically commit, by signing an online pledge, to avoid all distractions while driving. The RCMP is pleased to partner with TELUS and the Canadian Wireless Telecommunications Association on this initiative.
Over the period of this campaign, the RCMP and its partners will be raising awareness and providing education on distracted driving through social media networks Facebook and Twitter.
The RCMP’s Centre for Youth Crime Prevention will also be hosting tools and resources for parents, police officers and other persons working with youth to effectively engage them on this rapidly growing social issue.
For information on this topic, visit : http://www.rcmp-grc.gc.ca/cycp-cpcj/dd-dv/ltpa-lflc-eng.htm