DistractedDriving

By Stew Kernan

Expect to see a high police presence on the roadways during the long holiday weekend as police will be cracking down on impaired and aggressive driving as well stressing seat belt, marine, motorcycle and off-road vehicle safety.

Greater Sudbury Police Staff Sgt. Rick Waugh says one of the big concerns is distracted driving.

He says studies show  you are four-times more likely to be in a crash when talking on your phone while driving…with the numbers skyrocketing to 23-times when texting and driving.

During a blitz in April, Greater Sudbury Police charged 451 people with driving while using a handheld device.

Right now the fine for distracted driving is $280.00 but that is expected to rise to $1,000 and three demerit points when a new law comes into effect.