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Be alert and avoid tickets - or worse

The Barrie Police Service is ramping up their annual distracted driving campaign, which will continue through the Easter long weekend
BarrieToday Staff
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NEWS RELEASE

BARRIE POLICE SERVICE

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The Barrie Police Service is ramping up their annual distracted driving campaign, which will continue through the Easter long weekend.

The campaign is intended to raise awareness about the risks associated with distracted driving in order to improve road safety and to ensure a safe holiday for everyone.

Distracted driving qualifies as talking on a cell phone, texting, reading (e.g. books, maps, and newspapers), using a GPS, iPod, watching videos or movies.

Distracted driving has become the number one cause of fatal collisions for young drivers.

The lack of visual, manual and cognitive awareness leads to these collisions.

It is against the law in Ontario to use any electronic device while driving unless it is hands-free.

Any motorist caught using a handheld electronic device while operating a motor vehicle will face:

  • A fine of $490
  • Three (3) demerit points applied to your driver’s record upon conviction

If a motorist is convicted of distracted driving, a novice driver (subject to the Graduated Licensing program) will be subject to escalating sanctions:

  • First occurrence will result in a 30-day licence suspension
  • Second occurrence will result in 90-day licence suspension
  • Third occurrence - licence cancellation and removal from the Graduated Licensing System.

Exemptions

You can still use hand-held devices while driving in a few cases:

  1. In a vehicle pulled off the roadway or lawfully parked
  2. To call 9-1-1 - Having a cell phone can be an important safety aid for drivers and passengers - whether for personal safety or for reporting a crime or a collision.
  3. Transmitting or receiving voice communication on a two-way, CB or mobile radio (hand-mikes and portable radios like walkie-talkies require a lapel button or other hands-free accessory)

Police, emergency medical services personnel, firefighters and enforcement officers can also use hand-held devices and viewing display screens when performing their duties.

Be self-disciplined every time you get behind the wheel; do not allow yourself to be distracted in any way while you are driving.

If you are in a vehicle being driven by someone who is driving while distracted, always speak up. Be firm and say: STOP! 

The Barrie Police Traffic Unit continues to be committed to road and pedestrian safety.

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