PETERBOROUGH-Multiple people have been charged during a Distracted Driving Blitz within Peterborough County.
Last week, officers from the Peterborough County OPP participated in a Distracted Driving Blitz throughout Peterborough County aiming to reduce the number of drivers holding or using a hand-held communication device on our roads. During the week, officers issued 37 Provincial Offence Notices for Distracted Driving.
Under the Highway Traffic Act, Section 78.1(1) it is prohibited to hold a phone for any reason, even at a red light or while stopped in traffic. Drivers may only use devices if they are operated in a strictly hands-free mode in a securely mounted device, in a safely parked vehicle off the roadway, or in the event of having to make an emergency call to contact police, ambulance or fire services.
If convicted, fines can range from $615 to $1,000, 3 demerit points, and a 3-day licence suspension for your first offence. Stricter penalties and fines can be issued for subsequent convictions or for Novice Drivers.
Police say every driver has a responsibility to direct their entire attention to driving safely. Distracted Driving remains a serious road safety issue and is one that costs lives. Do your part and don’t be tempted by your phone.
