Ottawa Personal Injury Lawyer: Distracted Driving

OTTAWA ACCIDENT LAWYERS – With the increasing prevalence of Blackberry, iPhone and other cellular devices in workplaces across Ontario, cell-phone-related car accidents have become a bigger concern for Ottawa area drivers.

More than half of Canadians surveyed by CareerBuilder Canada admitted to using cell phones while driving – despite this being an illegal act in Ontario and other provinces. Many added that they feel pressure from their workplaces to answer their phones outside of business hours.

In Ontario, drivers caught using cell phones and other digital entertainment devices while driving face a fine of up to $500. If that usage leads to an accident, they face much more serious Careless Driving charges – potentially ending in a $400-$2000 fine, demerit points and increased insurance premiums.

It’s important to know the facts around using a cell phone when driving. Remember that nobody can force or obligate you to be reachable by phone or wireless device while you are driving. The safest option is to turn your phone off while you drive. If you must leave it on, pull over to the side of the road before taking calls or checking your messages.

If you are involved in a phone-related auto accident, be sure to get medical attention right away, and to follow up with your family physician in the days that follow.  Remember that some injuries take a few days to settle in.  Getting early medical attention is smart for your health and also helps in the event that you wish to pursue a claim for damages.

For more information about what to after an accident, contact the Ottawa injury lawyers at Auger Hollingsworth by email [email protected] or telephone 613 233-4529.