Distracted drivers charged near highway crash

Three drivers who were using their cell phones while driving through the accident scene in Spallumcheen Tuesday have been charged.

The Vernon North Okanagan RCMP said several drivers were observed using their devices to take pictures or videos while travelling past the scene of the fatal crash on Highway 97A on Tuesday, July 11.

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Three of the drivers were stopped and issued $368 violation tickets for “using an electronic device while driving.”

One of the drivers was also sanctioned for failing to obey a peace officer’s direction.

“It’s frustrating to have to deal with this; it’s unsafe and there’s absolutely no excuse for it,” stated Constable Chris Terleski, media relations officer for the Vernon North Okanagan RCMP.

“First responders are at these scenes trying to help people, and we need your help so we can do our work safely. We don’t need anyone getting seriously injured or killed because someone wants to take a picture. It’s an emergency scene and not a photo op so leave the phone alone. Drive safely, keep your hands on the wheel, and pay attention to the road in front of you,” Terleski added.