Distracted driving is now the number one cause of motor vehicle accidents in Ontario and has surpassed impaired driving as the leading cause of death on our roadways.
In fact, it's estimated that one person is injured from a distracted driving-related accident every 30 minutes. Because of this, the fines for distracted driving in Ontario are now among the highest in Canada. It’s become a serious issue that causes far too many injuries and deaths every year.
DANGERS OF DISTRACTED DRIVING
Distracted driving can put your life and the lives of your passengers, other drivers and pedestrians at risk. Safe driving requires your full attention, and even a few seconds of being distracted can cause an accident. Additionally, if you’re convicted of distracted driving you could receive hefty fines, lose demerit points, have your licence suspended or even go to jail.
WHAT COUNTS AS DISTRACTED DRIVING IN ONTARIO?
According to the Ontario government, deaths from car accidents caused by distracted driving have doubled since 2000. In an effort to make our roads safer, Ontario’s distracted driving laws now stipulate that while you’re driving, stopped in traffic or at a red light, it’s illegal to:
Use a phone or other hand-held wireless communication device to text or make a call, except to call 911 in an emergency
Use a hand-held electronic entertainment device such as a tablet or portable gaming console
Look at display screens unrelated to driving, such as watching a video
Program a GPS system
You’re still allowed to use hands-free devices such as Bluetooth headsets and look at GPS display screens that are securely mounted to your vehicle’s dashboard or windshield.
WHAT CAN YOU DO IF YOU’VE BEEN IN A CAR ACCIDENT CAUSED BY DISTRACTED DRIVING?
In Ontario, you’re entitled to compensation if you’ve been injured in a motor vehicle accident caused by distracted driving. You can receive accident benefits from your own insurance company to cover things like hospital expenses, rehabilitation treatment, income replacement and other services that are needed for recovery. In addition, if you’ve suffered a permanent impairment, you may be able to sue for damages. If you want to find out if you have a case, reach out to one of our personal injury lawyers.
CAR ACCIDENT PERSONAL INJURY LAWYERS IN SAULT STE. MARIE
Feifel Gualazzi is one of the largest personal injury law firms in Northern Ontario, with over 30 dedicated staff members working out of our Sault Ste. Marie office. If you’ve been in a car accident caused by distracted driving, our professional team will work tirelessly to get you the compensation you deserve. Contact us today for a free consultation.