THORNHILL, ON, June 27,
2024 /CNW/ - A new study conducted by CAA South
Central Ontario (CAA SCO) shows that over half of Ontario drivers (66 per cent) have
witnessed a close-call collision or traffic violation caused by
distracted driving.
For many Ontarians, those close calls are fueling safety
concerns. Ninety-one per cent of drivers in the province feel
somewhat or very concerned about distracted driving, a number that
remains unchanged from 2023.
"Distracted driving continues to be a leading factor in
collisions on highways and city roads," says Michael Stewart, community relations consultant
for CAA SCO. "We continue to raise awareness of the risks
associated with using your mobile device or in-vehicle technology
while driving."
Distracted driving has a direct impact on road
safety
Ontario's ban on using
hand-held devices while driving has been in effect since
October 2009. Despite this ban,
distracted driving is still a common sight on our roads. The survey
found that 63 per cent of Ontario Drivers have been behind a driver
in another vehicle who missed a traffic light change because that
driver was distracted.
"It takes only a split second of inattention to cause a close
call or even a tragic collision. Staying focused behind the wheel
is not just a personal responsibility but a crucial act of safety
for everyone on the road," adds Stewart
The survey also found that 42 per cent of Ontario drivers stated that they had met the
criteria for being distracted drivers in the past, with two per
cent admitting to having been charged.
While there can be many distractions on the road, the top five
most concerning distractions for those surveyed are:
- Holding a mobile device
- Watching TV
- Making a video call
- Grooming
- Typing a destination into a GPS or navigation app.
"Safe driving requires focus and concentration. It is
always best to set up your navigation system and send your text
messages before driving," says Stewart, "Using this technology
while driving is simply not worth the risk of potential charges and
the danger it poses to both the driver and others on the road."
Ontarians believe fines and penalties remain
the most effective methods to combat distracted
driving
Ontario drivers can face a
minimum fine of $615 up to
$1,000, three demerit points and a
three-day licence suspension for their first conviction of
distracted driving. According to survey data, 60 per cent of
drivers support increasing fines and penalties for distracted
driving convictions – however, only 32 per cent were aware of all
the penalties that come with your first conviction"
"As we continue to see a trend in these behaviours behind the
wheel, we understand the public's concern and desire for stronger
repercussions," says Stewart. "CAA SCO will continue to advocate
for road safety through education and community member insights to
help us create safer roads for all."
For more information, please visit
www.caasco.com/distracted
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DIG Insights
conducted the survey from January 22 to February
5, 2024, as a follow-up to research to previous CAA reports. The
online survey was conducted with 1,513 Ontario drivers aged
18 and older. Based on the sample size of n=1,513 and with a
confidence level of 95%, the margin of error for this research is
+/- 2%.)
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About CAA South Central Ontario
As a leader and
advocate for road safety and mobility, CAA South Central Ontario is
a not-for-profit auto club which represents the interests of over
2.5 million Members. For over a century, CAA has collaborated with
communities, police services and governments to help keep drivers
and their families safe while travelling on our roads.
SOURCE CAA South Central Ontario