In Ontario, distracted driving has become one of the most serious threats on the road, surpassing impaired driving in collision statistics. While most drivers understand the dangers of texting while driving, many are still unaware of how broad the definition of ‘distracted driving’ really is. Today, the penalties have never been more severe, and the risks to your insurance and safety have never been higher. Whether you’re a new driver or a seasoned commuter, this comprehensive guide will explain the updated laws, common misconceptions, penalties, and the impact a distracted driving charge can have on your car insurance in Ontario.
What Counts as Distracted Driving in Ontario?
Distracted driving refers to any action that takes your attention away from driving, even for a moment. According to Ontario’s Ministry of Transportation, there are three main types of driver distraction:
- Visual: Taking your eyes off the road
- Manual: Taking your hands off the wheel
- Cognitive: Taking your mind off driving
Examples of Illegal Distractions That Can Lead to a Ticket:
- Using your phone to text, call, or check GPS
- Typing an address into your navigation app while driving
- Scrolling through music playlists or social media
- Reading anything—including maps or books
- Eating or grooming (e.g. applying makeup, shaving)
Important Update: You are not allowed to use a handheld device even while stopped at a red light or in bumper-to-bumper traffic. The law applies at all times when you are behind the wheel, and the vehicle is in gear—even if you’re not moving.
Common Distractions That Won’t Result in a Fine—But Still Pose Risks
While not explicitly illegal, these actions can still cause dangerous lapses in focus:
- Sipping coffee or water
- Adjusting the AC or radio
- Talking to passengers
- Dealing with kids or pets in the backseat
- Daydreaming or being emotionally distracted
If any of these result in a collision or erratic driving, you can still be charged with careless driving or dangerous driving, both of which carry heavier consequences.
Distracted Driving Penalties in Ontario (2026)
Ontario has enforced some of Canada’s strictest distracted driving laws. Here’s a breakdown of the latest penalties for fully licensed drivers (Class G):
| Offence | Fine | Demerit Points | License Suspension |
|---|---|---|---|
| First Offence | $615 – $1,000 | 3 points | 3 days |
| Second Offence | Up to $2,000 | 6 points | 7 days |
| Third or More | Up to $3,000 | 6 points | 30 days |
Novice Drivers (G1, G2, M1, M2): Convictions can lead to longer suspensions or licence cancellation, as there is a zero-tolerance policy under Ontario’s Graduated Licensing System.
What Happens If You Injure or Kill Someone When Driving Distracted?
Distracted driving is one of the leading causes of fatal collisions in Ontario. Therefore, police have imposed stricter penalties, including licence suspensions and hefty fines. The suspension period and fine amount will vary depending on the number of subsequent offences.
- First offence: Three-day suspension, three demerit points, and $615 – $1,000 fine
- Second offence: Seven-day suspension, six demerit points, and a $2,000 fine
- Three or more offences: 30-day suspension, six demerit points, and $3,000 fine (with longer suspensions and potential license cancellation for novice drivers, or those with Class G1, G2, M1 or M2 licenses)
Note: Fully licensed drivers receive 3 demerit points per distracted driving conviction, regardless of the offence level.
Dangerous Driving (Criminal Charge)
- Can face up to 10 years in prison for injury
- 14+ years (or life) if the collision causes death
These are criminal offences and will stay on your record, potentially affecting your job, international travel, and ability to obtain insurance.
How Distracted Driving Affects Your Insurance in Ontario
Even a single distracted-driving ticket can significantly affect your insurance status and premiums.
Higher Premiums
A conviction can cause your auto insurance rates to double or even triple at renewal. Some companies may refuse to insure you altogether.
Cancellation of Policy
In serious cases, insurers may cancel your existing policy or decline to renew it, especially if you have multiple infractions or are a novice driver.
Labelled a High-Risk Driver
Many insurers classify drivers with a distracted driving conviction as “high-risk.” You’ll likely be forced to purchase high-risk auto insurance, which is significantly more expensive and harder to obtain.
How Does Distracted Driving Affect My Insurance?
If you’re driving distractedly and receive a ticket, this charge will definitely impact your auto insurance in the following three ways:
- Higher insurance rates: If you receive charges and are convicted of distracted/careless driving by a court or by paying the fine, you can see rate increases of up to 100 percent when it’s time to renew your policy. However, if you’re in the process of fighting it, you cannot be charged until the final decision is made.
- Loss of insurance coverage: Not only can you expect your rates to be very high, but in some cases, insurance providers may cancel or not renew your policy.
- High-risk driver label: If you receive a distracted driving charge, the majority of insurance providers will deem you a high-risk driver, meaning you’ll need high-risk auto insurance.
The Law Behind Distracted Driving: A Brief Overview
Distracted driving regulations have evolved in recent years to keep pace with technology and changing habits.
- Bill 174 (2017): Introduced as part of The Cannabis, Smoke-Free Ontario and Road Safety Statute Law Amendment Act, this bill laid the groundwork for stricter distracted driving laws.
- January 1, 2019: Ontario began enforcing tougher penalties, expanding enforcement to include any distracted activity behind the wheel, not just phone use.
- 2022–2025 Updates: While no major amendments have been passed since 2019, targeted enforcement campaigns have increased, particularly in school zones, on highways, and in construction zones. New technologies, such as AI-driven roadside cameras (pilot-tested in Australia), are under consideration for use in Ontario to detect distracted driving.
How to Avoid Distracted Driving: Smart Habits for Safer Roads
Avoiding distractions takes planning and discipline. Here are some tips to help you stay focused and avoid penalties:
- Use hands-free tech responsibly (e.g. voice commands, Bluetooth systems)
- Set your GPS and music before starting your drive
- Don’t eat on the go—plan snack breaks
- Pull over if you need to text or make a call
- Use “Do Not Disturb While Driving” features on your phone
- Secure children and pets before you start driving
- Stay emotionally focused—if you’re upset, take a moment before driving
Remember: Driving is a responsibility. Even a split-second distraction can cause irreversible damage.
Final Thoughts: Stay Alert, Stay Safe
Today, Ontario’s message is clearer than ever: there is no excuse for distracted driving. With increasing enforcement and escalating penalties, the financial and legal consequences are not worth the risk. Make safety your priority. By staying alert and avoiding distractions, you not only protect yourself, but everyone sharing the road with you.
Need help finding the right auto insurance coverage—even if you’ve had a distracted driving conviction? Contact an isure broker today for expert advice and to compare quotes from trusted providers.
Drive with Confidence
Request your free car insurance quote now and get the coverage you deserve.
Driving while distracted can be as dangerous as driving under Read more
Avoid costly fines and stay safe on the road with Read more
According to the Ontario provincial government, deaths from collisions caused Read more
