Smart Drivers Just Drive!

When driving a vehicle, road safety is your first responsibility! It is important to focus on driving and reduce driver distractions.

Driver Distraction Is A Major Cause of Collisions

Using either a hand-held or hands-free cell phone while driving makes it four times more likely that you will be involved in a collision. In fact, using a cell phone affects what a driver sees, reduces reaction time and changes the way drivers react—especially in heavy traffic.

How does a distracted driving conviction affect my insurance rates?

Each insurance company may handle a conviction slightly differently as far as how much your rates will increase, but they will all increase your rates at least somewhat.

This is because distracted driving is considered a major driving conviction and signals very dangerous behaviour for a driver. According to Ontario’s statistics since 2013, a driver using their phone is four times more likely to be in an accident. In fact, distracted driving is arguably only behind drinking and driving for dangerous behaviours that can lead to serious accidents, injuries and deaths. All of the penalties mentioned below are updated according to the updates to the distracted driving laws and punishments that came in January 1st, 2019.

What are the fines for distracted driving?

On January 1, 2019, the existing fines and penalties for distracted drivers in Ontario have increased. First time offenders will see a fine increase up to $1,000, three demerit points and a three day license suspension. It gets worse for those who are repeat offenders with fines up to $3,000, six demerit points and a 30-day licence suspension for third time convictions. To learn more about the Ontario’s distracted driving penalties, visit the Ontario Ministry of Transportation’s website.

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