New distracted driving penalties effective tomorrow in B.C. mean higher fines, more penalty points and possible driving prohibitions for repeat offenders.
As of June 1, 2016, each distracted driving offence is calculated using the fine of $368, (up from $167) combined with escalating Insurance Corporation of British Columbia (ICBC) driver penalty point premiums and possible driving prohibitions.
The base fine has increased to $368.
The number of penalty points per infraction is now four (up from three).
ICBC driver penalty point premiums start at $175 for the first four penalty points and escalate to a minimum $520 for a second offence within the same 12-month period.
First-time offenders face a minimum $543 in financial penalties.
Repeat offenders, upon a second offence within 12 months will pay the $368 fine plus $520 for a total of $888 in financial penalties, which escalate further for any additional offence.
Distracted driving is now considered a high-risk driving offence, which makes it equivalent to excessive speeding, driving without due care and attention, and driving without reasonable consideration. Repeat offenders will have their driving record subject to automatic review, which could result in a three-to-12 month driving prohibition.
Graduated Licensing Program (GLP) drivers face intervention after a first distracted driving offence and a possible prohibition of up to six months. The superintendent of motor vehicles also has discretion to prohibit drivers based on referrals from either ICBC or police.
