No solar selfies; ICBC warns eclipse could be distracting
Posted August 20, 2017 9:55 pm.
Last Updated August 21, 2017 8:30 am.
This article is more than 5 years old.
VANCOUVER (NEWS 1130) — If you think rubbernecking is bad when people drive by a crash site, get ready for another level of distracted driving during the partial solar eclipse on Monday.
Joanna Linsangan, with ICBC, says you should be prepared for potential problems and temptations during the morning commute.
“Please do not attempt to take a photo, or any kind of solar selfie while you’re driving,” Linsangan tells NEWS 1130‘s listeners.
“Do not wear your solar eclipse glasses while driving and keep in mind, if you are wearing sunglasses, that’s not enough to protect your eyes.”
As the eclipse begins shortly after 9 a.m., the public insurer’s spokeswoman says you’ll need to keep your eyes out for distracted drivers and people walking around with their gaze on the sky.
“These walkers will have their eyes to the sky so just make sure that you’re aware of their presence because they may not be thinking about what’s going on around them.”
Linsangan also warns against trying to watch the eclipse from the driver’s seat.
“The side of the road is not a safe place to watch the partial eclipse so do plan ahead and find a safe and legal place for you to park the car so you can enjoy the eclipse.”
The eclipse should reach its peak at 10:21 a.m. and be finished by 11:37 a.m.
