Existing Fines and penalties are changing January 1st 2019 for Ontario Drivers with A to G Licensed.
Starting January 1st 2019 you’ll face:
First conviction:
- a fine of up to $1,000
- three demerit points
- a three-day day driver’s licence suspension
Second conviction within 5 years:
- a fine of up to $2,000
- six demerit points
- a seven-day driver’s licence suspension
Third and subsequent convictions within 5 years:
- a fine of up to $3,000
- six demerit points
- a 30-day driver’s licence suspension
Special Note for Novice drivers
Effective January 1, 2019, if you hold a G1, G2, M1 or M2 licence, and are convicted of distracted driving, you will face the same fines as drivers with A to G licences but you won’t receive any demerit points.
Instead of demerit points you’ll face:
- a 30-day licence suspension for a first conviction
- a 90-day licence suspension for a second conviction
- cancellation of your licence and removal from the Graduated Licensing System (GLS) for a third conviction
- cancellation of your licence and removal from the Graduated Licensing System (GLS) for a third conviction
What does Distracted Driving Mean for Your Car Insurance?
Being charged using a handheld device while driving will result in a minor conviction going on your driving record for 3 years. This is the same as getting a speeding ticket less than fifty kilometers per hour. Remember, it does not matter how many demerit points you receive, but how many moving violations you receive (i.e. a speeding ticket, a handheld ticket..etc). Furthermore, if you cause an accident while using a handheld device you could also be charged with careless driving which is a much more serious offence. Accumulating too many tickets can result in less insurance companies willing to insure you. Typically if you have 3 or more tickets you than have to search for a high risk car insurance provider.
Get a Car Insurance Quote with A Distracted Driving Ticket
Click below to get a quote on your car insurance if you have a distracted driving or handheld ticket.
source: Ontario.ca