Hastings and Prince Edward Counties Health Unit

It’s no laughing matter… driver distraction contributes to 8 out of 10 collisions.

So, what is distracted driving?

Driving and…
Using cell phones; reading maps; drinking coffee; tending to children or pets; adjusting music or climate control; eating; feeling tired; fixing your hair; putting on make-up; daydreaming; reaching for something in the vehicle.

Driving is a task that requires your full attention every time you get behind the wheel. Being distracted even momentarily can have serious consequences. You may feel in control while multi-tasking, but if you think you can respond quickly to changes in road conditions or mistakes by other drivers, think again.

What can you do?

Some tips to help you stay focused on driving and only driving

Deal with potential distractions, such as eating, drinking coffee, putting on make-up, combing your hair, reading, writing and checking your messages, before or after your drive.
Be familiar with the controls in your car, including the radio and CD player, before you set out.
Keep the radio volume low.
Pull over to look at maps.
Make it a habit to use your cell phone only when parked, have a passenger take the call or let the caller go to voicemail.
If children are acting up, pull over to deal with it safely.
Keep reading material in the trunk, so you’re not tempted to read.
Ask a front seat passenger to adjust the radio or CD player for you.
Avoid emotional or complex conversation while driving.

Is Distracted Driving Against the Law?

Yes! Driving without your full attention is careless driving. A driver convicted of this offence will receive six demerit points, a maximum fine of $1000, possible license suspension or even jail time. Your insurance premium may double or your policy could be cancelled.

A Local Campaign:

A Distracted Driving public education campaign is underway in Hastings & Prince Edward Counties to motivate people to reduce distractions while driving and therefore improve safety on our roads. The goal of the campaign is to prevent injuries and deaths related to motor vehicle crashes due to driver distraction and inattentiveness, thereby improving safety for all road users in our region.

Watch for the posters and displays throughout the community and listen for the radio ads.

Partners in the campaign include the Hastings and Prince Edward Counties Health Unit, the Belleville Police Service, Stirling-Rawdon Police Service, and the OPP Detachments serving Central Hastings, Prince Edward County, Quinte West and Bancroft. Financial assistance has been provided by the Ministry of Transportation.

For more information, contact your local Police Service or the Health Unit at 613-966-5513 ext. 229.

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