Sask. police set sights on distracted driving; top cause of fatal crashes

REGINA – Police across Saskatchewan are on the lookout for distracted drivers, including those who are eating, applying makeup, reading or using cellphones to talk or text

Saskatchewan Government Insurance says distracted driving is the focus of traffic safety this month.

Officials say distracted driving has been the No. 1 factor in all crashes in Saskatchewan for the last two years – even ahead of impaired driving.

SGI says that in 2012 there were more than 7,500 collisions related to distracted driving that cost 69 people their lives.

It’s illegal in the province to use a hand-held cellphone to talk, text, email or surf the Internet while driving, although experienced drivers can use hands-free devices.

The fine for breaking the cellphone driving law and the law of driving without due care and attention is $280 and four demerit points.