Canadian Legislative Updates

Ottawa Police Target Distracted Driving

During the month of February, Ottawa police will be engaging in a blitz to target distracted driving and unsafe lane changes. The blitz comes as part of Ottawa's Selective Traffic Enforcement Program (STEP).

Distracted driving continues to receive heavy focus, one year after the province of Ontario banned talking, texting, or e-mailing on mobile devices while operating motor vehicles. The new law came into effect in October 2009; however, a three-month grace period was instated to allow motorists to adjust to the new law.

Figures have been released that indicate that distracted driving caused 5,800 crashes in the city between 2007 and 2009.