Skip to content

Distracted driving remains the deadliest behaviour on OPP-patrolled roads

Last year, the OPP responded to 8,711 crashes that were linked to driver inattention
distracted driving AdobeStock
Stock image

NEWS RELEASE
ONTARIO PROVINCIAL POLICE
***********************
During the month of April, 2018 the East Algoma Detachments of the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) responded to 833 calls for service and conducted numerous hours of patrol time. Some of those calls were:
    •    Two impaired driving related charge
    •    24 motor vehicle collisions (MVC) - only two with injuries
    •    One MCV related fatalities
    •    20 violent crime related calls
    •    70 property crime related calls
    •    10 drug related calls

Inattentive driving is still the deadliest behaviour on OPP-patrolled roads for the fifth consecutive year.

"By now, the majority of drivers and passengers have witnessed, had a close call or been involved in a collision with a driver who was texting, talking on their cell phone or engaged in some other form of distraction. Last year, the OPP responded to 8,711 crashes that were linked to driver inattention. These drivers have no regard for your safety, making it as important as ever that you lead by example on the road and be a strong voice in your community and on social media about this deadly driving behaviour." - OPP Deputy Commissioner Brad Blair, Provincial Commander of Traffic Safety and Operational Support.

Did you know?

If convicted of distracted driving, a fully licenced driver will receive:
    •    fine of $400, plus a victim surcharge and court fee, for a total of $490 if settled out of court
    •    fine of up to $1,000 if you receive a summons or fight your ticket
    •    three demerit points applied to your driver's record

Drivers who endanger others because of any distraction, including hand-held and hands-free devices, may still be charged with Careless Driving under the Highway Traffic Act or even Dangerous Driving under the Criminal Code of Canada. Both charges carry heavy fines and penalties.

***********************