Cst. Todd Bozak dressed up as a construction worker in order to catch suspected distracted drivers in Cowichan Valley. (RCMP Photo)

North Cowichan/Duncan RCMP are taking action on distract driving this year and one member recently hung up his stetson for a hard hat in order to catch offenders.

Detachment members concluded distracted driving campaign blitzes throughout the Cowichan Valley last week, including in Chemainus.

“Members of the RCMP assisted in making a positive impact towards keeping North Cowichan and Duncan area streets safer,” said Cpl. Stephen Merrick. “Please leave your phone alone and remain focused on safe driving – anything can happen in an instant.”

Cst Todd Bozak shed his RCMP uniform and dressed as a construction worker including white hard hat, reflective vest, work boots and measuring stick in order to spot offending motorists.

The result was over 30 Motor Vehicle Act infractions being “addressed” by the RCMP, including some for distracted driving.

The following areas were patrolled;

Trunk Road/Lakes Road/Tzouhalem Road intersections

James Street @ Cowichan High School

Chemainus Road

Cowichan Lake Road/Somenos Road/Sherman Road

Trans-Canada Highway @ Green Road

According to police, distracted driving is becoming one of the leading causes of motor vehicle collisions in British Columbia and the initiative was conducted in order to keep the public safe.

Local RCMP are expected to continue with more enforcement campaigns through the year.