The OPP is warning drivers that with students back in school, there will be zero tolerance for drivers who direct less than 100 per cent of their attention to driving.
“Some drivers claim to be good multi-taskers behind the wheel and this is how they justify habitual texting, talking on their phone or other distractions while driving,” stated OPP Commissioner Vncent Hawkes in a press release.
“This attitude has contributed to driver inattention being the deadliest behaviour on OPP-patrolled roads for the past five years.
“To help get the school year off to a safe start, develop zero tolerance for anyone who claims to be a ‘safe’ distracted driver.
“There is no such thing and anyone who claims otherwise is a dangerous driver.”
Officials say the OPP has investigated 5,619 collisions involving an inattentive driver so far this year, leading to 31 deaths and 1,051 injuries.
“Inattentive drivers continue to pose a serious threat to road users and are linked to the deaths of 738 people on OPP-patrolled roads over the past ten years,” states the OPP press release.
With the start of the school year, drivers are reminded to use extra caution and watch their speed when driving through school zones and crosswalks,” stated Michael Tibollo, Minister of Community Safety and Correctional Services.
“Safety is our number one priority. Be mindful of all road users, including other vehicles, buses, bikes, pedestrians and little ones getting on and off school buses – it’s a good habit to practice year round.”
Did you know?
Simply holding a cell phone/electronic device while driving is illegal.
On Jan. 1, penalties for distracted driving will increase to: a fine of up to $1,000, three demerit points and a three-day driver’s licence suspension.
Also effective Jan. 1, novice drivers will face the same fines as regular drivers as well as a 30-day licence suspension for a first conviction, 90-days for a second conviction, and a licence cancellation and removal from the graduated licencing system for a third conviction.
