Distracted driving during the holidays

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# Mobile devices while driving ## Explain dangers Distracted driving is the number-one killer on Ontario roads. It is responsible for more deaths than impaired driving or speeding. Distracted driving can be caused by using a mobile device while you're behind the wheel. This includes: - Talking or texting on a phone - Manually dialing or scrolling through contacts - Programming or looking at your GPS - Looking at display screens of devices that are unrelated to driving such as laptops, MP3 players, or DVD players. Studies have shown that drivers who use a mobile device while driving are four times more likely to be in a collision. Most of us drive to and from work with our mobile devices within arm's reach. Whether it's a personal or work-related call or text, it can be difficult to resist the urge to answer or take a look. However, each time you read a text or an email, you're taking your eyes off of the road for at least four seconds. Studies have shown that drivers who take their eyes off the road for more than two seconds are twice as likely to have a crash. ## Identify controls Use hands-free devices-In Ontario, it's against the law to use hand-held communication and entertainment devices while driving. Although hands-free devices are permitted, you're not allowed to manually dial a phone, scroll through contacts, or program your GPS. Don't use your devices-There is no conclusive evidence that using a hands-free device is safer than using a hand-held one. So the best practice is not to use a mobile device while operating a vehicle. Resist the urge to look at or answer emails or text messages until you've finished driving. Let all phone calls go directly to your voicemail. If you must send a reply or make a call, pull over to a safe spot off the road. To resist the urge to use your device, you can: - Turn off your device or switch it to silent mode before you get in the car. - Silence any audible notifications that tempt you to check your phone w…

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# Distracted driving ## Explain dangers Distracted driving means that someone is doing something that takes their attention away from the road while they're driving. This could include: • Talking on their phone or even keeping it within easy reach . Adjusting the radio or programming a GPS - Eating, drinking, combing their hair, shaving, putting on makeup, or getting dressed • Looking or reaching for something on the passenger seat, back seat, or floor • Thinking more about the events of the day than their driving • Paying more attention to their passengers than to the road ahead of them. Distractions are a serious danger, not only to the driver but also to passengers and other motorists. The OPP reports that a person is injured in a distracted driving collision every 30 minutes. It is the cause of more fatal collisions than speeding or impaired driving. In Ontario, tougher penalties on distracted driving came into effect on Jan 1, 2019. For a first offense, drivers may be fined up to $1,000, lose their licence for three days, and receive three demerit points. Convicted motorists may also see their insurance rates go up. ## Identify controls ## BEFORE DRIVING 1. Do a pre-trip inspection-Check your vehicle before you get in. That will help you spot a problem before it's too late. 2. Map it out-Before travelling, map out your route first. Put your travel information into your GPS while you're still parked. 3. Be comfortable-Before putting the car in gear, make sure you're comfortable by adjusting the seat, the heat/air conditioning, the mirrors, and the steering wheel. 4. Eat, drink, and do your grooming at home- Give yourself the time to do those things before you get into your vehicle. Your only job should be to drive safely. 5. Keep it clean-Things like pop cans, wrappers, coffee cups, or sports equipment can all distract you by moving or rolling around on the floor. By cleaning your car, you can limit this distraction. 6. Set up your phone-Som…