Area motorists observed using cellphones while driving

After seeing an increase in distracted driving charges related to cellphone use, Colchester District RCMP say they will be stepping up enforcement measures this year.

In a recent unscientific study at the corner of Main and Prince streets in Truro, as well as another on Pictou Road in Bible Hill, the Truro Daily News compiled the following information during a half hour of observation at each location. Observation results:

– Prince and Main streets, Truro – noon to 12:30 p.m. 385 vehicles observed while they were either approaching or moving through the intersection.

Four drivers were very obviously using their cellphones while three appeared to be texting.

– Pictou Road, near Main Street, Bible Hill – 12:40 – 1:10 p.m. Of 330 vehicles observed, 11 drivers appeared to be texting while two drivers were talking on their cellphones.

Truro town police issued 222 tickets for operating a vehicle while using a cell phone from Jan 1 – Dec 31, 2016.

Colchester RCMP issued a total of 103 tickets throughout Colchester County last year against motorists for using their cellphones while driving compared to 98 charges laid for drinking and driving offences.

Across the province last year, RCMP officers issued 1,703 tickets for using a cellphone while driving.