Did you know that roughly 1 in 4 fatal car accidents involve distractions?¹ In Ontario, data shows someone is injured in a distracted driving accident every half hour.¹ So whether you're teaching a new driver the ropes or working to improve your own habits, these tips can help you minimize distractions and keep our roads safe.

What counts as distracted driving?
In Ontario, distracted driving laws prohibit using hand-held communication devices, entertainment devices, and certain display screens.² This applies even when stopped in traffic or at a red light.² It's illegal to:
 

• Use a phone or other hand-held communication device to dial or text; you can only use a device to call 911 in an emergency.
• Use a hand-held electronic entertainment device, such as a tablet or portable gaming device.
• Look at a display screen for activities unrelated to driving, such as watching a video.
• Program a GPS device, except by voice command.

You can use hands-free communication devices with an earpiece, lapel button, or Bluetooth.² You can also use a GPS display screen if it's built into or securely mounted on your vehicle's dashboard.²

It's important to note that while actions such as eating, drinking, grooming, reading, smoking, and reaching for objects aren't included in Ontario's distracted driving laws, you can still be charged with careless or dangerous driving if they impair your ability to drive safely.²

6 tips to avoid distractions while driving
Although we all strive to be safe drivers, we have to recognize that devices can quickly draw our attention away from the road and distract us. Here are some tips to help eliminate distractions while behind the wheel.
 

1. Before entering your vehicle, turn off your phone, switch it to 'Silent Mode,' or activate the 'Do Not Disturb' feature.
2. Consider placing your phone in your glove compartment or on the back seat if you think it still might be distracting.
3. Play your music before driving, or ask a passenger to control the audio.
4. Make sure to adjust your seat and climate controls before hitting the road.
5. Program your destination into your GPS before starting your journey.
6. If a call or text is urgent and can't wait, find a safe place to pull over before responding.

By following these tips, you can help keep your focus on the road and drive safely. If you're a current OTIP policyholder, contact us at 1-833-494-0090 to review your existing auto insurance policy. If you're not insured with OTIP and are shopping for auto insurance, call us at 1-888-892-4935 to get a quote and receive a $20 gift card of your choice!

You could find an additional $50 waiting for you if you fill out our survey and WIN!
When you complete our short Spring Survey, you could be one of ten lucky winners of a $50 gift card of your choice. You only have until May 16, 2025, so get started now! Read the rules and regulations here.
 

1. Traffic Injury Research Foundation – Distracted Driving Puts all Canadians at Risk
2. Government of Ontario – Distracted Driving