A group of Kelowna business people are coming together to make our roads safer with an online pledge and contest.

These local businesses said they hope the “safe driving” prize can motivate drivers to stop being distracted behind the wheel.

Photo Credit: Before and After Media.

“If we don’t see a change in driving patterns, this year we’ll see more than 30 people die in a fatal crash because someone picked up their cell phone when at the wheel,” said Pat Rosen, owner of Kelowna Cycle, in a statement.

ICBC reports an average of 140 injured cyclists in car crashes each year in the Southern Interior.

“We all share the road,” continued Rosen, who will be handing out a $500 gift certificate as a pledge prize.

According to ICBC statistics, failing to yield the right of way is one of the leading causes of crashes that result in injuries or deaths. Because of this, cyclists, pedestrians and vehicles need to focus on better safely sharing the road at intersections. In Kelowna, that means a special focus on Harvey and Spall Road, the number one crash intersection in the Southern Interior.

“As Kelowna grows and our streets get busier with more people driving, cycling and walking around the city, it’s important for everyone to take a moment to think carefully about safety,” said Mayor Colin Basran. “People need to educate themselves about the rules of the road and then make sure they follow those rules.”

The prizes for the pledge are valued at just under $2,000, including dash cameras, Bluetooth audio decks, travel vouchers and golf equipment.

The driving pledge comes just before an increase in fines for distracted driving in the province. Starting on June 1, a first offense will cost drivers $543. Kelowna RCMP is also implementing the use of new distracted driving scopes, which can spot drivers who are texting from up to 1.2 km away.

Photo Credit: RCMP.

Last year during May long weekend alone, RCMP in B.C. handed out 199 tickets for using an electronic device while driving.

“You’re five times more likely to crash if you’re on the phone so just, ‘plunk it in the trunk’ and you won’t even be tempted,” said Rosen. “We’re hoping the campaign makes a real difference in making roads safer for all us.”

Winners will be chosen before the July long weekend. Drivers can share safety messages at mydrivingpledge.com until June 28.

Photo Credit: mydrivingpledge.