A woman driving while also looking at her phone.

What You Should Know About Distracted Driving

Did you know that texting and driving have exceeded drinking and driving as the top cause of death among teens while in vehicles?

According to texting and driving safety statistics, it is stated that you are 23 times more likely to get into an accident while texting and driving. Not only that, you are also four times more likely to experience an accident when using a hands-free device. There is literally only one option that will help tremendously in saving lives of innocent people, and that is to keep your cell phone away whenever you are behind the wheel, regardless of how far you are driving.

What is Considered Distracting Driving?

Unfortunately, things can literally occur in the blink of an eye on the road; much faster than any of us anticipate. Whether it is chatting, texting, reviewing maps, trying to select the perfect song, using your GPS, each of these are considered as distracting driving, and could result in penalties if an accident takes place or if you are simply caught by police.

Severe Penalties for Ontario Drivers

Ontario has the most drivers in Canada, along with some fairly severe penalties for distracted drivers. You may face a minimum fine of $300 up to $1000, plus the addition of three demerit points. Since the year 2000, distracted driving deaths have nearly doubled in number. Did you know that a driver using a cell phone is over four times likely to crash their vehicle than a driver who is solely focused on the road?

What Can You Do to Prevent Distracted Driving?

  1. If it simply cannot wait,  pullover
  2. You can fix that hair or put that lip-gloss on once you reach a bathroom mirror. It’s easier and of course, safer!
  3. See something fall from your console? Leave it there until you’ve stopped the vehicle.
  4. Taking your dog or cat on a road trip? Be sure they are not loose in the car. Keep them in their cage or tie them up safely if you need to. Animals roaming about are an accident waiting to happen.
  5. Avoid adjusting your seat or changing temperature controls. If and when possible, do these things prior to stepping on the gas.
  6. This is a hard one and I am sure we are all guilty of it. Try to limit the amount you eat on the road. While it can be difficult keep snacking to a minimal as this can be extremely distracting.

Keep in mind that distracted driving tickets can affect your car insurance. Two tickets could increase your annual premium by 10%, and a third ticket may even result in the cancellation of your policy. At Will Marshall Insurance, our brokers are proactive and passionate about helping our clients live safer lives. Our goal is to provide you with the insurance you need to keep your protected; however, your cooperation with smart driving habits may or may not predict your future car insurance rates. Always remain focused and safe on the road.

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