Q&A - Distracted Driving With an N

Thu, 2017-03-23 10:48 - Anonymous

New Driver Signs 2011I recieved a ticket a week ago for cell phone use while driving. It was my first ticket aside from a parking ticket. On the ticket it also includes a fine for failing to display my N.

If I pay this ticket am I going to be prohibited from driving? Is there anything I can do? I have a job that requires driving. 

I already regret this deeply, not only because it has drained my bank account, but I'm also deeply embarrassed. I will never do it again.

Comments

Driving Prohibition

DriveSmartBC - 2017/03/23 - 12:14

It is very likely that you will receive a driving prohibition if you pay the ticket or are convicted for it in traffic court.

RoadSafetyBC advises:

Graduated Licensing Program (GLP) drivers who incur one distracted driving infraction will also be considered high-risk, and will be reviewed by DIP, potentially receiving a 1-6 month prohibition.  GLP drivers may be subject to longer prohibitions for subsequent infractions.

The Driver Improvement Program Policies & Guidelines explain the actions that RoadSafetyBC will take against drivers who break the driving rules.

Many people have jobs that require driving, either to get to and from them or as the job itself. While this might result in a shorter term of prohibition if you explain in the submission to an intent to prohibit notice, it will not be an acceptable reason to avoid a prohibition entirely.

With regard to the ticket itself, you may be interested in the article on disputing the penalty or on what to do if you get a traffic ticket.

A conviction or prohibition may also extend your time as a Novice driver. The program exit requirements are:

Time completion: Held a Class 7 licence for 24 consecutive months without a driving prohibition - reduced by 6 months if an approved driver education course is successfully completed in the learner stage and drivers have no violations (tickets) or at-fault crashes (found to be 50% or more at fault) for the first 18 months of the Novice stage

You Knew the Rules

Leisa - 2017/04/05 - 13:30

Hard to feel any sympathy here.  The rules are clear and concise for L and N users.  You not only violated the N display but the very, very serious cell use while driving.  It's good you are embarrassed and it has cost you dearly as that is exactly what its meant to do.  So, take your punishment for your blatant disregard and earn your privledge to drive.  

Google Ads