The North Grenville Road Safety Committee is urging drivers to put down their devices and avoid other distractions while driving.
Distracted driving is one of the most serious road safety issues on Ontario roadways. It is the number one killer on the roads, causing more deaths than impaired driving and speeding. It is estimated that 8 in 10 accidents are caused by distraction.
Driving while distracted is dangerous because it takes the drivers eyes and attention off the road and compromises the safety of the driver, passengers, and other people on the roads, including other drivers, cyclists and pedestrians.
Distracted driving can include talking on a phone, texting, reading, using a GPS, watching videos, eating or drinking, smoking, personal grooming, or even adjusting the radio. Drivers should know that using a hand-held device while stopped at a traffic light, stop sign or when stopped in traffic for any reason is also a distracted driving offence.
Fines for distracted driving in Ontario are among the highest in Canada. Penalties can include a fine up to $1,000, three demerit points and a license suspension. The good news is distracted driving is preventable. Always put your phone away before you get behind the wheel and be alert while driving.
The Road Safety public awareness campaign aims to promote safe driving behaviours and make roads in North Grenville safer for all users.
The North Grenville Road Safety Campaign Committee is comprised of the Municipality of North Grenville, the Leeds, Grenville and Lanark District Health Unit, the Grenville County Ontario Provincial Police, and the United Counties of Leeds and Grenville.
For more details on the campaign visit www.northgrenville.ca/roadsafety.
Tips to Avoid Distractions while Driving:
- Put your phone away: Before you drive, switch your phone to silent mode and put it out of reach. Do not text, use apps or read emails, and let calls go to voicemail.
- Review your route: Set the GPS and review all maps and directions.
- Prepare your kids and yourself: Make sure children have everything they need before you go – reading materials, toys, food and drink. And make sure you’re ready, too – including having all your personal grooming done before you get behind the wheel.
- Drive actively: Avoid eating or drinking and keep two hands on the wheel.
- Pull over: If you must answer your phone, pull over to safe location or use a Bluetooth device.
