Distracted Driving Laws in Ontario
Distracted Driving Laws in Ontario
Posted on June 29, 2022
If you are an Ontario driver, it's important that you are familiar with the distracted driving laws in Ontario. Our team at Nexcar Auto Sales & Leasing has put together this post explaining and outlining what is legal and illegal when it comes to distracted driving. Follow along with this guide that our car dealership in Toronto has put together to ensure you are driving safely and legally.
Ontario's Highway Traffic Act
In section 78 of this traffic act, it outlines what is not permitted while driving. Firstly, no driver should have a visible display screen such as a computer, TV, or other devices available to them. This is considered distracted driving. In addition, no driver should be using or holding a handheld device capable of text messaging, telephone communications, mail, or electronic data. Below you will find an outline of actions that are also illegal.
What You Can't Do:
- Any device screen must be out of sight to the driver
- Social media or texting is not permitted
- Using a handheld device or phone is illegal while driving
- Allowed to use maps, but can't be typing in an address
- Any electronic device should not cause distraction
What Is Legal
You can't be charged for any of the above if you are legally parked. In addition, while driving, you are allowed to use a phone to call 911 in case of an emergency. You are also allowed to change the climate controls while driving and use voice commands. Blue tooth and all other hands-free communication devices are allowed. One may also look at the GPS screen as long as the screen is built into a car's dashboard.
Common Reasons for Distracted Driving
Unfortunately, today it is common to see more issues of distracted driving than ever recorded before. Some of the most common forms of distracted driving include eating & drinking, use of cell phones, fidgeting with car controls, and being lost in thought. All of these reasons can be avoided if the driver were to pull over to a safe location before acting in these ways. We are sharing these common reasons for distracted driving with you so hopefully, you can become more aware of what they are and avoid doing them yourself.
Penalty for Distracted Driving
Depending on if it is your first, second, third, etc., conviction. different penalties will apply. As per the first offense, one can expect a fine of $615 if settled in court, a fine of up to $1000 if you fight the ticket and lose, a loss of three demerit points, and up to a 3-day license suspension.
How We Can Help
Nexcar Auto Sales & Leasing always wants to promote safe and legal driving. If you are looking to purchase a used car with an affordable auto loan, our team is ready to get you set up. For any questions or inquiries regarding our used car dealership offers, please give our team a call today at (416) 633-8188 and we would be delighted to help you.