New distracted driving penalties for a new year.
January 1 marks the day that Ontario’s distracted driving laws become stricter and harsher.
New rules include raising the minimum fine from $490 to $615.
For first time convictions, drivers will face a three day license suspension, three demerit points and a $615 fine.
If you’re caught a second time you can expect a fine up to $2000, a week-long suspension and six demerits, while third time offenders or more will have their license suspended for a month, six demerits and a hefty fine.
According to the Ontario Ministry of Transportation, one person is injured in distracted driving every half an hour.
