Ontario Provincial Police launched a campaign against distracted driving over Labour Day weekend. The goal is to create a lasting awareness of the dangers of texting or talking on cell phones while driving. The organization reported alarming statistics revealing that the combined number of collisions caused by speeding and impaired drivers are significantly lower than car accidents resulted from distracted driving.
OPP says the complacency of citizens toward the use of mobile devices while driving needs to be changed. Passengers should take a stand about the dangers to which texting drivers expose them, and the same with drivers spotting other vehicle operators using their cell phones. A quick glance to check a text message can result in a devastating crash that could affect the lives of many innocent road users.
According to OPP statistics, car accidents in which distracted driving has been determined to have been the cause totalled 6,360 so far this year — up to the end of August. In comparison, 4,700 crashes were caused by speeding, and drivers who were impaired by drugs or alcohol caused 1,158 collisions. The number of fatalities among distracted drivers in Ontario so far this year is 47 — eight more than what was recorded for the same period last year.
Authorities say the chances of being involved in car accidents are 23 times higher for drivers who text while driving, compared to attentive drivers. If you, a friend or a family member are victims of someone’s negligence and suffering from injuries and losses, contact us to speak to one of our lawyers. We can inform you of your rights and what steps you should be taking in order to protect your rights for the future.
