Police in Kamloops say tougher new penalties for distracted driving won’t change the way the law is enforced on local streets.
New penalties came into effect this week for drivers caught using electronic devices while behind the wheel.
Anyone busted for talking on a handheld cellphone, holding a cellphone, operating an mp3 player or programming a GPS unit while driving will be subject to three demerit points, in addition to a $167 fine.
That is the same penalty that had already been in effect for drivers caught texting or emailing.
RCMP Cpl. Cheryl Bush said the new penalties won’t impact the way the laws are enforced.
“It just means the consequences are higher,” she said.
“There’s no need to change what we’re doing in terms of enforcement or projects. We will continue with those as we have been.”
Demerit points remain on a driver’s record for five years and can result in further sanctions, including driving prohibitions.
Drivers that accrue more than three points have to pay an ICBC premium that starts at $175 and increases if additional points are registered.
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