The OPP says inattentive drivers are the deadliest drivers on OPP-patrolled roads for the fifth consecutive year.
OPP officials say distracted drivers were behind 83 road fatalities on OPP-patrolled roads in 2017, surpassing 57 speed-related deaths, 46 alcohol/drug-related deaths, and 49 deaths linked to not wearing a seat belt.
The OPP says 692 people have been killed on OPP-patrolled roads since 2009 in collisions that involve an inattentive driver.
OPP officers will be targeting distracted drivers during March Break next week.
"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," says OPP Deputy Commissioner Brad Blair, Provincial Commander of Traffic Safety and Operational Support.
If convicted of distracted driving, a fully licenced driver will receive:
· a 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.