What is Distracted Driving?
Distracted driving in Ontario refers to the act of driving while engaged in other activities, especially those involving handheld devices like smartphones. These distractions can take your attention away from the road, leading to increased risks of accidents.
Let’s take a look at Distracted Driving charges from a Legal Perspective
Under Ontario’s Highway Traffic Act, Section 78(1), distracted driving, particularly the use of handheld devices while driving, is illegal. This includes texting, calling, or even simply holding a device.
What are the Penalties for Distracted Driving?
The penalties for distracted driving in Ontario vary based on the number of offenses:
- First Offense: Fines range from \$615 to \$1,000, along with a three-day driver’s license suspension and three demerit points.
- Second Offense: Fines increase to between $615 and $2,000, coupled with a seven-day suspension and six demerit points.
- Third and Subsequent Offenses: Fines can be as high as $3,000, with a 30-day suspension and six demerit points.
What are the Long-Term Consequences of Distracted Driving?
Beyond immediate fines and suspensions, a cell phone or distracted driving conviction can also impact your car insurance rates, leading to significant increases in premiums.
Fighting a Distracted Driving Ticket
If you’ve received a handheld / cell phone / distracted driving ticket, legal advice and representation can be crucial. A law firm specializing in this area can provide guidance and potentially help in reducing penalties or contesting the charge.
The most important first step in a Distracted Driving charge is to get legal advice. Get a strategy from a law firm that handles these charges on a daily basis. A proper strategy could avoid massive insurance increases and license suspension that would affect your driving record for years to come.
What is Distracted Driving in Ontario?
Distracted driving in Ontario includes using handheld devices while driving, such as texting or calling, which is illegal under the Highway Traffic Act, Section 78(1).
What are the Penalties for Distracted Driving in Ontario?
Penalties vary by offense: first offense incurs $615-$1,000 fines, 3-day suspension, and 3 demerit points. Subsequent offenses have higher fines and longer suspensions.
