(Government of Saskatchewan)

By CKOM News

Distracted driving

SGI says distracted driving causes 780 injuries and 21 deaths every year in Sask.

Aug 7, 2022 | 1:48 PM

Some drivers are having a hard time shutting off their screens when they’re driving.

Whether it’s sending a text, taking a photo, or even doing a TikTok dance, drivers are becoming too comfortable with electronic devices while they’re in the driver’s seat. Tyler McMurchy, SGI spokesperson, said phones shouldn’t be a priority behind the wheel. In fact, it shouldn’t be an option at all.

“There’s nothing more important when you’re behind the wheel of a motor vehicle than operating that motor vehicle,” McMurchy said.

“When you’re driving, just drive. We know that distracted driving is still a very big concern.”

The numbers back up McMurchy’s words. Over the past five years, an average of 780 people were injured each year in crashes caused by distracted drivers on roads in Saskatchewan. Distracted driving leads to an average of 21.6 deaths on Saskatchewan roads and highways every year.

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McMurchy said it’s important to ignore your phone whenever you’re driving because the risks greatly outweigh the value of that text message or call.

“We’re talking about eliminating distractions before you start driving. That means leaving the phone alone. There’s no TikTok or Instagram video that’s worth a $580 ticket,” McMurchy said.

In addition to the hefty fine, drivers will also get four demerits for holding, using, manipulating, or viewing a handheld cell phone, or for driving without due care and attention.

That’s only the first offence. A second offence within one year will result in a $1,400 ticket and a seven-day vehicle impoundment, and a third offence will result in a $2,100 ticket and another week without a vehicle

“I can’t imagine there’s anything that you could look at on your phone that would be worth that kind of money,” McMurchy said.

“A lot of people haven’t gotten the message that they can’t check their messages when they’re driving.”