West Kelowna cops hand out 33 tickets during distracted driving crack down

Officers with the West Kelowna RCMP traffic unit handed out a total of 33 tickets during a crack down on distracted driving last week.

The traffic cops were looking for drivers using cell phones while driving, according to an RCMP media release issued today, March 17.

By the end of the enforcement action 20 drivers were given tickets for use of electronic device while driving.

Police caught eight people who weren’t wearing seatbelts, one driver who got a 24 hour suspension for alcohol and three tickets for Motor Vehicle Act offences.

Officers also made a seizure under the Excise Act.

RCMP said several drivers were given verbal warnings.

Drivers are 3.6 time more likely to be in a crash when using a personal device, according to ICBC.

If you see someone driving dangerously, or putting others at risk, you’re asked to call 9-1-1.