Cellphone Use While Driving Is a Leading Cause of Accidents

What Is Distracted Driving?

Distracted driving can occur when a driver’s full attention is not directly on the road. This may happen due to using cellphone while driving, texting, answering incoming calls, eating, adjusting the navigation system, or engaging with passengers. Among these distractions, cellphone use is one of the leading causes of distracted driving, which has significantly increased the risk of injuries, collisions, and deaths.

Even using a hand held device while operating a vehicle can be a significant risk factors, as drivers remain mentally distracted. This article will go through the dangers of cell phone use while driving and how to avoid them.

Distracted Driving Statistics in Ontario

According to HelloSafe Canada, distracted driving remains a significant issue in Ontario, contributing to thousands of accidents each year. In 2022 alone, 105 fatalities were recorded due to driver inattention, marking a 36% increase over two years.

Ontario’s distracted driving laws prohibit hand held devices while driving, including texting, talking, dialing, or even simply holding a phone. Novice drivers and those using hand held phones at a red light can also face penalties.

Penalties for Distracted Driving:

• First Offence: Fine up to $1,000 and 3 demerit points
• Second Offence: Fine up to $2,000 and 6 demerit points
• Third Offence: Fine up to #3,000, licence suspension, and increased insurance rates

Types of Distracted Driving

Visual Distractions

A visual distraction occurs when a driver’s eyes wander off the road, which increases the risk of missing important cues. Common examples include:

• Looking at a GPS navigation system
• Reading or sending a text messages
• Looking at billboard advertisement
• Adjusting electronic car devices
• Grooming or applying makeup

Cognitive Distractions

Cognitive distractions take a driver’s focus away from driving, even if their hands remain on the wheel and their eyes are on the road.

These distractions include:

• Daydreaming or being lost in thought
• Engaging in hands free phone calls
• Talking to passengers
• Stress or emotional distress affecting concentration
• Listening to loud music or podcasts

Manual Distractions

These involve a driver taking one or both hands off the steering wheel to perform another task, reducing control of the vehicle. Examples include:

• Eating or drinking while driving
• Smoking
• Assisting a child with a car seat or seat belt
• Reaching for objects in the car
• Rummaging through personal items
• Adjusting the radio or climate controls

Distracted Driving and Motorcycle Accidents

Distracted driving can significantly increase the risk of motorcycle accidents, as inattentive drivers may fail to notice motorcycles on the road. Motorcycles are smaller and much more vulnerable than other vehicles, making them harder to see, especially when drivers are focused on cell phones.

When a driver is not paying full attention, they may:

• Run red lights or stop signs, putting motorcyclists at risk
• Fail to check blind spots before changing lanes
• Misjudge distances and speeds, leading to rear-end collisions

Since motorcycles offer minimal protection compared to cars, crashes caused by distracted driving often result in catastrophic injuries, which can include brain injuries, spinal cord damage, and broken bones. Avoiding distractions behind the wheel is crucial in preventing serious and often fatal motorcycle accidents.

Cell Phone Driving Laws in Ontario

According to the Government of Ontario, it is illegal to use handheld communication (such as cell phone) and electronic devices (such as DVD players and e-readers) while driving.

This means drivers are prohibited from using:

• Scrolling through music playlists or adjusting entertainment systems
• Holding, using, or manipulating a phone to talk, text, dial, or browse
• Watching videos or reading digital content while driving

Drivers are only permitted to use hands free devices (e.g., Bluetooth or voice activated controls) if they can be operated without touching the device. Additionally, commercial and novice drivers face even stricter penalties for distracted driving.

Violating Ontario’s distracted driving laws can result in fines, demerit points, and license suspensions, with penalties increasing for repeat offenders. It’s essential to stay focused on the road to avoid collisions and ensure safety for all road users.

How to Prevent Distracted Driving

To reduce dangerous driving, always keep your focus on the road.

Tips to avoid cognitive distractions include:

• Put your phone on silent mode before starting the car
• Pull over to a safe area, if you must take an urgent call
• Use voice commands or a hands free device if necessary
• Keep your hands on the steering wheel at all times
• Avoid eating or drinking behind the wheel

Speak to a Car Accident Lawyer

If you or a loved one have been involved in a distracted driving accident, consulting a car accident lawyer can help protect your rights and maximize your compensation. Distracted driving collisions often involve complex liability disputes, and insurance companies may try to minimize your claim.

An experience personal injury lawyer can:

• Determine fault and hold the at fault driver accountable for negligent or reckless behaviour
• Investigate your case by gathering evidence such as witness statements, phone records, and police reports
• Represent you in court if necessary, ensuring you receive the maximum compensation possible
• Negotiate with insurance companies to secure fair compensation for your medical expenses, lost wages, and vehicle repairs

At Grillo Law, our experienced car accident lawyers offer a free consultation to evaluate your case. If you or a loved one has been injured due to a distracted driver, contact us today to discuss your legal options.