Increased fines for distracted drivers now in effect

September 3, 2015 · 0 Comments

As of September 1, 2015 the government of Ontario has implemented Bill 31 which allows for stiffer fines for distracted driving.
Why the need to do this? Research shows that drivers who use cell phones are four times more likely to be in a collision than drivers who focus on the road. When drivers take their eyes off the road for more then two seconds, their crash risk doubles. These higher penalties are meant to discourage drivers.
In Ontario it is against the law to operate hand-held communication and electronic entertainment devices while you are driving or view display screens unrelated to your driving. Which means it is illegal for drivers to talk, text, type, dial or email using hand-held cell phones and other hand-held communications and entertainment devices. These include: iPods, GPS and MP3 players, cell phones, smart phones, laptops and DVD players. If you are a fully licenced driver the fine starts at $490 and can go up to $1000, you will also receive three demerit points. Young and novice drivers convicted of any Graduated Licensing System violation will receive a minimum 30 day licence suspension and up to removal from the Graduated Licensing System. Also, anyone who puts others at risk by driving while distracted, for whatever reason, can also still be charged with careless or dangerous driving.
Cyclists are not excluded from the new laws. The cycling changes are directed at encouraging cycling, promoting road safety and sharing the road. New measures to better protect cyclists include higher fines starting at $365 up to $1000 plus three demerit points for someone who opens a parked motor vehicle door into the path of a cyclist or other traffic, often called “dooring” or a “door prize”. Drivers also must keep a one meter (or three feet) distance when passing cyclists. Set fines for not following this law is $110. Cyclists must have proper lights, reflective materials and reflectors on their bicycles, including e-bikes and mopeds or chance a $110 fine.
As well the new law protects the safety of those who are assisting others at roadside, often in dangerous roadside conditions. The “slow down and move over” law has been extended to include tow truck operators who are stopped on the roadside with their amber lights flashing. This law already includes our emergency care workers such as police, firefighters and ambulance attendants when their red, or red and blue emergency lights are flashing. The fine for breaking this law is $490.
Now here are some simple steps you can take to avoid being distracted while you drive. Use your cell phone only when you’re parked, or have a passenger take the call. Let your calls go to voicemail or better yet, turn off your cell phone before you start driving. Identify and preset your vehicle’s climate control, radio and CD player. Plan your route and set your GPS before you leave. When you’re hungry or thirsty, take a break. Don’t eat or drink while you drive. Avoid other distractions like reading maps, grooming activities and tending to children and pets.

By Michelle Janzen