Distracted driving continues to be a concern

Distracted driving continues to be a concern and leading cause of collisions on our roadways. Every driver has a responsibility to direct their full attention to driving safely.

The new laws that came into effect on January 1, 2019 are tougher penalties and another measure to deter the behaviour.

Penalties for distracted driving as of January 1, 2019 include:

• Drivers caught talking on their phones, texting, dialing or emailing using a hand-held device, such as a cell phone and other entertainment devices, will be fined $615 and three demerit points.
• Drivers who receive a second conviction within five years face a fine of up to $2,000, a seven-day licence suspension, and six demerit points.
• For a third and all other subsequent convictions within five years, drivers face a fine of up to $3,000, six demerit points, and they lose their license for 30 days.