Ontario law makes it illegal for Ontario drivers to talk, text, type, dial or email using hand-held cell phones or other hand-held communication and entertainment devices while driving. Just last month, Ontario increased fines drivers must pay if they are caught using hand-held devices, cell phones or smartphones while driving. SeeTexting and Driving Car Accidents in Ontario
Drivers are still allowed to use hands-free devices while driving. For example, drivers may use an earpiece, a headset or a Bluetooth device using voice-activated dialing.
Drivers may also view GPS devices, provided that the device is mounted on the dashboard or on a windshield suction mount so that the drivers’ views are not obstructed. Drivers must input the required information before they start driving. Therefore, drivers are only viewing the GPS screen while driving and not putting in the address information while driving.
Even though using an earpiece or another hands-free device to talk on the phone while driving is permitted, contrary to popular belief, it is still not safe to use while driving. In a recent poll conducted by the National Safety Council (NSC) in the United States, 80% of drivers in America incorrectly believe that hands-free devices are safer than using hand-held phones.*Source: www.nsc.org (National Safety Council poll: 8 in 10 drivers mistakenly believe hands-free cell phones are safer)
There have been numerous studies that show hands-free devices are not safer than hand-held phones because drivers’ brains are still distracted by the cell phone conversations. Even though drivers may believe they are making a safer choice by using a Bluetooth, earpiece, etc., they are simply incorrect.
The Senior Director of Transportation Initiatives at the NSC stated, “the brain does not truly multi-task. Just like you can’t read a book and talk on the phone, you can’t safely operate a vehicle and talk on the phone.”
He further stated that it’s also confusing for drivers because they believe it’s safe to use a hands-free device because the laws allow it. In addition, car makers install hands-free technology in many vehicles. The NSC poll found that 53% of respondents believe hands-free devices must be safe to use since they are built into vehicles.
Even though Ontario law permits the use of an earpiece or a Bluetooth device to talk on the phone while driving, drivers really should not use it. The fact of the matter is, drivers who use hands-free devices are still distracted and can cause deadly car crashes in Kingston or Ottawa.
Drivers used to drive without smartphones, GPS devices or cell phones. What conversation or text is so important that drivers should risk their lives and other innocent victims’ lives? Distracted driving accidents caused by drivers talking on the phone, using a hands-free device or texting are completely preventable.
Deadly Consequences of Texting While Driving in Ontario
Texting and driving can lead to deadly consequences. If you or a loved one was injured in a car, truck or bus accident because the driver that caused the accident was texting while driving, you have legal rights and may be able to recover your damages and injuries from the accident. To talk to someone about your car accident in Kingston or Ottawa, call the personal injury lawyers at Bergeron Clifford for a FREE consultation. 1-866-384-5886
