Irresponsible driver behaviour has the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP), East Region, concerned about the fate of many road users this year. The OPP’s Distracted Driving campaign is underway and runs from Saturday, March 8 to Friday, March 14, 2014. During that time, the OPP will be doing its part to eliminate the threat of distracted driving through its own awareness raising efforts and focused enforcement of distracted driving laws throughout the province.
Since Saturday, March 10, OPP officers in East Region have laid 84 Distracted Driving charges.
In 2013, distracted driving fatalities surpassed both impaired and speed related fatalities in fatal motor vehicle collisions investigated by the OPP. A total of 78 persons died in distracted driving related collisions compared to 57 impaired driving deaths and 44 speed related deaths last year.
The OPP is reminding motorists that on March 18, 2014 the current distracted driving fine of $155 will jump to $280 (this includes the increased $225 fine plus a $50 victim fine surcharge and $5 court cost).
The OPP is asking Ontarians to show their support during this important campaign. Go to the OPP’s Facebook and/or Twitter pages and let them know how you plan on helping to eliminate distracted driving on Ontario roads. The OPP will highlight some of your entries in a campaign wrap-up news release following the campaign.
Follow us Twitter @OPP_ER
