New Ontario Driving Law Means Automatic Suspension of Licences for Distracted Driving

A new law in Ontario has been implemented that means anyone convicted of distracted driving will be punished with an automatic suspension of their driver’s licence as well as a significant fine.  The length of suspension and fine will increase for repeat offenders.

Distracted driving has been an increasing concern in recent years, and Ontario officials have passed a law that significantly raises the cost of breaking the law.  First-time offenders will be hit with a three-day suspension as well as a $1,000 fine.  For a second offence, the punishment is seven days without a licence and a $2,000 financial hit.  After that, the penalty will include a 30-day suspension, $3,000 fine, and six demerit points to your driver’s abstract.

Toronto police Constable Clint Stibbe confirmed on 680 NEWS on Monday, Jan. 15, 2018 that “the law has been passed” and “it’s now just a matter of time” referring to the penalties being enforced by police officials.  It is expected for the laws to come into full effect sometime in the next few months.

It is important to note that officers will not be allowed to seize driver’s licences on the roadside.  Only after the driver has been found guilty and through a judge’s approval will the licence be suspended.

But, if you can’t keep your phone out of your pocket for your morning commute it’s totally your fault anyway.