WATCH ABOVE: This week, Edmonton police issued hundreds of traffic tickets for a number of distracted driving offences. Lisa Wolansky explains.
EDMONTON — Nearly all of the drivers ticketed during a 24-hour distracted driving enforcement blitz in Edmonton this week were on their cell phones.
The blitz took place on Wednesday and over the course of 24 hours police handed out 480 distracted driving tickets. Of those, 463 – or 96 per cent – were given to drivers who were using their cell phone.
“It can take less than a second of distraction for a tremendous, life-altering incident to occur,” said Sgt. David Green with the EPS Hit and Run Unit. “It is imperative for drivers to be alert and aware at all times when operating a vehicle.”
READ MORE: Texting and driving simulator shows risks of distracted driving
Officers also issued nine tickets to drivers using other hand-held wireless devices. Three more tickets were given to drivers who were reading, using GPS or engaging in personal hygiene routines.
Police in the area of 104 Avenue and 109 Street gave a man a ticket for brushing his teeth while driving.
“Any distraction from the road, including makeup application, shaving, flossing or brushing your teeth is just as dangerous as any other distracting activity while behind the wheel,” said Green.
READ MORE: Most Canadians admit to distracted driving: poll
Distracted drivers are three times more likely to be involved in a collision than those who are paying attention, according to Alberta Transportation.
The Camrose Police Service also participated in the blitz and issued 10 tickets.
The 24-hour enforcement blitz was part of the ‘Hang Up and Drive’ campaign, which was initiated by the EPS to reduce distracted driving incidents in the city.
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