Tougher Penalties for Distracted Driving in 2019

In Ontario, deaths from accidents caused by distracted driving have doubled since 2000. According to the Ministry of Transportation[1], Ontario data on accidents from 2003 show:

• one person is injured in a distracted-driving collision every half hour
• a driver using a phone is four times more likely to crash than a driver focusing on the road

Starting January 1, 2019, drivers will face higher penalties for distracted driving. For a first conviction, drivers can be fined up to $1,000, plus three demerit points and have their licence suspended for three days. A second conviction can carry a fine up to $2,000, plus six demerit points and a suspension for seven days. A third or subsequent conviction can carry a fine up to $3,000, plus six demerit points and a suspension for 30 days.

On top of that, convicted drivers can expect their insurance premiums to go up.

Drivers with a graduated (G1, G2, M1 or M2) licence can face even tougher penalties.

Drivers can also face more charges for careless driving if drivers endanger other people because of any kind of distraction.

The easiest way to avoid penalties for distracted driving is not to use a hand-held device when you are behind the wheel. Careless or distracted driving lead to accidents that can seriously injure or kill other drivers, passengers or other users of the road. These accidents can be avoided.

If you or a loved one has been seriously injured in an accident as a result of another driver’s distracted or careless driving, you should consult an experienced personal injury lawyer to obtain the compensation you are entitled to. Call the Jasmine Daya & Co. team at (416) 967-9100 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation.

[1] https://www.ontario.ca/page/distracted-driving