Cell phones have been an appendage attached to the extremities of humanity for some time now, and governments across the world have responded by enacting and enforcing laws forbidding “distracted driving”. These are just laws indeed, as research shows that distracted driving causes 20 to 30 percent of motor vehicle collisions, and distracted drivers are 3 times more likely to be in a crash when compared to attentive drivers.
New Distracted Driving Laws in Ontario
In light of the sobering statistics, the Ontario provincial government has recently adopted new, harsher penalties for distracted drivers. Though using handheld devices while driving has been outlawed in Ontario since 2009, the government unanimously passed legislation to sharpen the laws’ teeth. Here is a summary of the bill’s amended laws:
- Distracted driving fine increase: the most notable of the recent changes; drivers will now have to pay between $300 and $1,000 for distracted driving, and will be charged three demerit points as well. The previous law charged $60 to $500, and did not add demerit points.
- Opening doors on cyclists: fines for opening doors on cyclists while they pass your vehicle will be increased to the same range as distracted driving, and motorists must now leave one meter of space while passing cyclists. Cyclists are also now permitted to use paved shoulders on non-400 series highways.
- Drugged driving: drivers under the influence of drugs will now face the same penalties as drivers under the influence of alcohol, including vehicle impoundment for seven days and installation of an ignition interlock system to prevent driving while impaired.
With stricter laws in place, you’re more protected than ever should you suffer a severe auto accident injury. By using an Ontario personal injury attorney after an accident, you can secure yourself the compensation you need to get through the ordeal that any serious injury brings.