When you’re looking for the best car insurance rates, you know that your driving record impacts the rates that you will be offered.

In recent years, distracted driving has become an issue, causing accidents and making the road more dangerous for other drivers, cyclists and pedestrians etc.

Texting while driving has repeatedly caused many road accidents. When you are behind the wheel and put your head down so as to hide the phone, you are putting yourself and others at high risk.

What is considered distracted driving?

• Texting
• Having a call on your cell phone
• Smoking
• Playing with the stereo
• Drinking a beverage

Essentially any activity that can take your focus away from the road.

Did you know that distracted driving is the number 1 cause for accidents in Ontario? (Impaired driving is the 2nd). In response to this, the province has increased fines and penalties for distracted driving infractions as of early June 2015. The top fine for distracted driving is $1,000. (For an update on where things stand with distracted driving in 2019, including increased fines and repercussions for being caught, check out this blog post.)

It seems there is much more awareness that needs to be drummed up around this issue. Breaking the habit is up to you. This should be parented, taught in school and given much more media awareness.

At Insurance Buddy we are hoping to help create more awareness around this dangerous driving habit. You are always welcome to get in touch with us to find out more about how distracted driving can impact your insurance rates.