Tougher distracted driving laws, higher penalties coming into effect

Summer may be in full swing, but the province is making a big push to make the streets safer for everyone when the kids return to school in the fall.

The Making Ontario Roads Safer Act was approved unanimously last month and will come into effect this fall.

The act cracks down on the dangers of distracted driving, including hiking fines and increasing demerit point penalties.

Distracted driving continues to be a deadly trend and should it not be curbed, it could possibly cause more fatalities by next year than those from drinking and driving.

“Research suggests that a driver who uses a cell phone while driving is four times more likely to be involved in a crash,” Transportation minister Steve Del Duca explained.

Click here for safe driving practices.

According to the Ontario Provincial Police, 73 people died in distracted driving related collisions in 2014.

The new legislation will see the range of fines for distracted driving skyrocket from $60-$500 to $300-$1000, plus three demerit points.

As well, new drivers going through the graduated licensing system will have their drivers license suspended.

“These are significant and necessary steps in curbing the rise of distracted driving and helping to reduce collisions, injuries and deaths on our roads and highways,” said Teresa Di Felice, CAA’s director of government relations.

The increased fines apply to risky behaviours like texting or using a handheld phone, and the new laws also address cyclist safety.

Drivers can now face a distracted driving charge for “dooring” – when a driver or passenger in a car opens their door into the path of a cyclist.

And vehicles must maintain, when possible, a one-metre distance when passing bicyclists.

“As drivers we need to remember to check for cyclists making a turn, changing lanes or when we’re opening our car doors,” said Di Felice.

“Dooring is one of the most common and dangerous car bike collisions and we hope our work to raise awareness around this issue will reduce these collisions,” she continued.

But cyclists must also do their part in keeping the streets safe.

The legislation increases the maximum fine for not using required bicycle lights and reflective material from $20 to $60–$500.

The CAA recommends the following safety tips for cyclists:

  • Ride with the flow of traffic. Clearly marked contra-flow bike lines are the only exception to this.
  • Keep a safe distance from vehicles.
  • Focus on the road at all times – do not use mobile devices while riding.
  • Be visible, especially at night, by wearing reflective gear and putting reflective tape and lights on your bike.
  • Use proper hand signals to indicate which way you plan to turn at intersections.

 

Click here for more CAA bike riding tips.

“As road users we must keep our heads up, make contact, remember to share the roadway. This act alone can have many positive benefits,” Di Felice said. “Whether you’re on a bike or in a car, keep your heads up, make eye contact, be aware of those things inside and outside your car.”

Ontario will also become the sixth province to have legislation protect tow truck drivers.

Starting this fall, motorists must now slow down for tow trucks stopped on the shoulder of the highway with their yellow lights flashing providing service – just like they would for police, ambulance and fire.

The fine for drivers who don’t slow down or move over is $400 and the penalty is three demerit points.

According to the CAA, about 100 tow truck drivers die every year across North America because other drivers don’t give them enough space while they’re working on the side of the road.

Top Stories

Top Stories

Most Watched Today