Toronto police blitz cracks down on distracted driving

Toronto police are cracking down on drivers who talk or text at the wheel, as part of a week-long safety blitz.

The campaign, called “That Text or Call Could End it All,” will highlight the dangers associated with using cellphones while driving.

Police say the goal is to bring about an awareness of the dangers of distracted driving through education and enforcement.

Distracted-driving legislation came into force in Ontario in 2010. Since then, approximately 120,000 tickets have been issued for distracted-driving-related offences, according to Toronto police.

Data shows more than 10 per cent of collisions reported to Toronto police in 2016 involved at least one inattentive driver — eight of those crashes were fatal.

Last month, tough distracted driving laws became one step closer to taking effect in Ontario after receiving Royal Assent.

The fines for distracted driving would increase from a maximum of $1,000 to up to $2,000 on a second conviction and up to $3,000 for third or subsequent incidents, as well as six demerit points for multiple offences.

Offenders would also see their licence suspended for three days on a first offence, seven days after two convictions, and 30 days for third and further convictions.

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