Huron County OPP laid 23 distracted driving charges during a week long campaign.
Thr OPP say 21 people were charged for driving with a hand held communication device, while two were ticketed for the offence of "display screen visible to driver."
The fine for distracted driving is $490, plus three demerit points upon conviction.
Novice drivers face a suspension of their licence .
Police say talking or texting on a cell phone while driving is as dangerous as impaired driving.
Last year, 69 people died on OPP patrolled roads in collisions where distracted driving was a factor. 45 people died in crashes involving impaired drivers.
People who text and drive are 23 times more likely to be involved in a crash or near collision.
Here are some simple tips to help you stay focused on your driving and avoid distracted driving:
- Use your cell phone only when you're parked, or have a passenger available to take the call.
- Let incoming calls go to voicemail.
- Turn off your cell phone before you start driving.
- Identify and pre-set your vehicle's climate control, radio and CD player prior to embarking on your travel.
- Plan your route and set your GPS before you leave.
- When you're hungry or thirsty, take a break. Avoid eating or drinking while you drive.
- Avoid other distractions like reading maps, grooming activities and tending to children and pets.
- Reducing the number of distracted drivers on Huron County roadways remains a top priority for the Huron County OPP
- Detachment. Although the campaign is officially over, Huron OPP officers will remain vigilant throughout the year with their focused patrols in an effort to identify distracted drivers.
