Surrey RCMP and its partners are joining policing agencies across the Lower Mainland by launching the Think of Me distracted driving campaign aimed at educating drivers to stay safe on our roadways.
In partnership with ICBC, Surrey Crime Prevention Society, and Surrey Schools, Surrey RCMP Traffic and Youth Section officers are teaming up to remind drivers to monitor their speed and limit their distractions especially now that children are back in school.
Officers will be handing out cards to drivers, designed by elementary students, to remind drivers about the dangers of distracted driving and to think of the kids (think of me) when driving in and around school and playground zones.
This campaign is an important part of our prevention efforts to educate motorists about the dangers of distracted driving, says Surrey RCMP Sergeant Chad Greig. As police officers, too often we see the tragic outcomes of unsafe driving practices. One in four deaths on BC roads involve distracted and inattentive driving. Take a break from your phone and remember to keep your eyes forward while driving.
This initiative is a powerful reminder to drivers to stay focused on the road and watch for children, especially in or around school zones, said Karen Klein, local ICBC road safety coordinator. When you’re behind the wheel, take a break from your phone. Studies show drivers who are talking on a cellphone lose about 50 per cent of what’s going on around them.