Archived Letter - 1194

I am a student at John Black Public School and I have a problem with how many people are distracted while driving. Distracted driving is a part of 4 million car crashes each year, in North America. Also drivers who are distracted are 3 times more likely to be involved in a car crash compared to drivers who are attentive while driving. I have seen way too many people looking down at or talking on their phone, or even doing something on their GPS while they are driving. Someone who is texting while driving is 23 times more likely to be involved in a car crash. Before people drive they should set their GPS to their destination, secure loose objects and make sure their children have everything they need. Someone who is talking on the phone is 5 times more likely to be involved in a crash. While someone is driving they should not look at their phone and keep 2 hands on the wheel at all times. Someone who is driving should let the passenger answer phone calls, texts and emails and get things for their kids. About 26% of all car crashes have involved people using their phone. The penalties for distracted driving in Ontario are fines of up to $2 000 and/or jail for 6 months, and you get your licence suspended for up to 2 years.I don’t think anybody wants charged with these penalties so I want this problem of distracted driving to stop.

Sincerely,
Stephanie Ash

Stephanie Ash