Major Changes to Distracted Driving Laws

When you’re driving, you have one job. Just one text could cost you $1,000

No matter how important that next call or notification may seem, distracted driving simply isn’t worth the risk. In 2019, distracted driving penalties in Ontario have become much more severe, with fines of up to $1,000 on your first offense.

Drivers with a conviction on their record can also expect their insurance premiums to increase by upwards of 20% or in some cases, find it difficult to secure coverage at all.

Distractions Put You and Others at Risk

• Distracted driving is now the cause of the majority of vehicle accidents in Ontario.
• The OPP have named distracted driving the leading cause of fatal accidents in the province; surpassing driving under the influence!

Steps for Prevention

• Turn off app notifications
• If you need to respond, carefully pull over to a safe area before taking a call or sending a message.
• Use Bluetooth or other in-vehicle connectivity options to use your device hands-free.
• Learn how to activate the Do Not Disturb feature on your smartphone.
  Android users: Click Here
  iPhone users: Click Here

Talk With Your Family and Friends

• Distracted driving doesn’t stop at using electronic devices. It can also mean eating, reading, or doing anything else while driving that can take your focus away from the road.
• You can help your loved ones stay safe by talking to them about the importance of avoiding distractions when you are behind the wheel of a vehicle.