The Prevalence of Texting While Driving vs. Drunk Driving: A Comparative Analysis

It is a universally acknowledged truth that distractions while driving, particularly from mobile devices, have become a critical safety concern. Specifically, the issue of texting while driving has gained significant attention, often being considered almost as prevalent as drunk driving in many jurisdictions.

Ontario's Distracted Driving Legislation

In 2019, the province of Ontario, Canada, introduced stringent new legislation aimed at reducing distracted driving, with a particular emphasis on the use of cell phones while operating a motor vehicle. This legislation underscores the severity of the problem and the need for intervention.

Under the new legislation, the use of handheld cell phones for texting or making calls is strictly prohibited, with the exception of hands-free use such as one-touch or voice dialing and Bluetooth connectivity. This change has resulted in regular enforcement blitzes, where police have been actively patrolling to catch offenders and enforce the new rules.

Enforcement and Penalties

Since the inception of this legislation, the number of charges reported has been substantial. According to official reports, as of 2019, approximately 750 charges per week were being issued. It is worth noting that these charges come with more than just a fine; they are designed to serve as a deterrent against such dangerous behavior.

Penalties for Offenders

The penalties for various convictions under Ontario’s distracted driving legislation are as follows:

First Conviction: Maximum fine of $1000 Minimum fine of $615 if settled out of court 3 demerit points 3-day driving suspension Second Conviction within 5 years: Maximum fine of $2000 6 demerit points Automatically results in a 7-day driver’s licence suspension Third Conviction within 5 years: Maximum fine of $3000 6 demerit points Automatically results in a 30-day driver’s licence suspension

For novice drivers who use handheld devices like cellphones, the penalties are even more severe:

First Offence: 30-day suspension Second Conviction: 90-day suspension Third Conviction: License cancellation and removal from the Graduated Licensing System

These strict penalties highlight the importance of adhering to the new legislation and the serious consequences of non-compliance.

Variety of Incidents and Dangers

The issue of texting while driving extends beyond high-speed incidents to include various low-speed but equally dangerous situations. According to a former traffic cop, during a single observation period, more than 25 percent of drivers were using their phones at a critical moment in their journey.

This behavior has led to a significant increase in slow-speed rear-end accidents, particularly at the approaches to signaled intersections. The use of mobile devices has also resulted in more incidents of:

Improper lane changes leading to crosswalk intrusions Intrusions on crosswalks Striking pedestrians

These incidents have been more common since the widespread adoption of mobile technology, underscoring the critical need for public awareness and strict enforcement of laws to reduce these dangerous behaviors.

Given the severity of these issues, it is clear that both drivers and policymakers must work together to address the growing prevalence of texting while driving and ensure safer roads for all.