Texting and driving fines could triple on P.E.I.

The fine for texting and driving may soon triple on Prince Edward Island.

Transportation Minister Rob Vessey says the province is considering a fine increase.

The fine ranges between $300 and $475. Vessey says he would like to see that increase to as high as $1,200.

“If it's your back pocket it will make you think twice. Although our numbers have come down a bit from the high of 2012, I think we have to send a strong message that texting and driving is unacceptable and if you're going to text and drive and you're caught you're going to pay the price,” he said.

Vessey says the province will discuss the change further in the fall sitting of the legislature.