Ontario Provincial Police will be targeting distracted drivers this March Break. West Region Sgt. Laura Brown said in 2018, there were over 9,115 collisions on OPP patrolled roads that were linked to an inattentive driver, resulting in 55 deaths.
"At this time, and certainly at any time of the year, it's so important that we direct our complete and full attention to the road," said Brown. "I think we can all agree that one life lost on our roadways is one too many, and these can be prevented."
Brown said penalties for using a cell phone or handheld device while driving is $1000, three demerit points and a three-day licence suspension.
"In addition to the fines, the points and suspensions, the more important message is everybody getting to their destination safely. We all have a role to play in that every time we get behind the wheel, and staying focused on the road and the act of driving is not an unreasonable ask."
The distracted driving campaign runs from Monday, March 11 until Sunday, March 17.