Distracted driving is one of the fastest-growing offences on Ontario roads. Police are trained to spot it quickly, and the penalties can be severe. If you’re ever pulled over for distracted driving in Ontario, here’s what you should know about the process and the consequences.
How Police Catch Distracted Driving in Ontario
Ontario police look for specific signs that a driver may be distracted, including:
- Holding a phone while driving.
- Typing, scrolling, or dialing on a device.
- Swerving, drifting lanes, or inconsistent speeds.
- Taking eyes off the road for more than a brief glance.
Even a quick check of a text message can result in being stopped. Officers rely on their direct observation to issue a distracted driving ticket in Ontario.
What Happens When You’re Pulled Over
During a stop for distracted driving, an officer will:
- Approach your vehicle and explain the reason for the stop.
- Request your driver’s licence, registration, and proof of insurance.
- Issue a ticket if they believe the offence occurred.
Unlike some charges that require testing or further evidence, distracted driving in Ontario is often based entirely on what the officer saw.
Distracted Driving Penalties in Ontario
The penalties for distracted driving are strict and escalate with each offence. They may include:
- Fines ranging from hundreds to over a thousand dollars.
- Demerit points — three for a first conviction, increasing with repeat offences.
- Licence suspensions for second and third convictions.
- Higher insurance rates that can last for years.
These penalties are intended to reduce distracted driving, which is now a leading cause of collisions in Ontario.
Why Police Take Distracted Driving Seriously
Ontario law treats distracted driving as a major public safety issue. In fact, in recent years, distracted driving has caused more collisions than impaired driving. Police see it as a preventable risk — which is why enforcement campaigns, roadside blitzes, and year-round monitoring remain a priority.
Contact XPolice if You’ve Been Charged
Being pulled over for distracted driving in Ontario is a straightforward process, but the penalties can have lasting effects on your record, your licence, and your insurance. Pleading guilty can impact you for years.
If you’ve been charged, contact XPolice today. Our team can explain what the ticket means, how it affects your driving record, and what steps you can take before making a decision in court. Don’t face distracted driving charges alone — talk to XPolice first.