What is distracted driving?
Canadians are spending more and more time on the road. And as we do, we all try to multitask behind the wheel, which can often shift our attention from the road to a number of activities which we feel we just have to do. Whether we realize it or not, tasks that take our attention from the road can – and do! – have an impact on our ability to drive safely. Whether it’s leaning over to get that CD that is just out of reach, eating a hamburger or having a heated argument with a passenger or over a cell phone, activities that distract us from keeping our eyes on the road and hands on the wheel have a direct impact on road safety.
Canada’s provincial Highway Traffic Acts allow our police to charge drivers who are driving without due care and attention. Enforcing these regulations to the full extent of the law, in combination with educating drivers about all sources of distraction, is the key to making and keeping our roadways safe. As well, some jurisdictions have introduced specific distracted driving legislation that makes the use of handheld electronic devices by drivers illegal.
What is “Focus on Driving”?
The Canadian Wireless Telecommunications Association (CWTA) and the partners of the Focus on Driving initiative want to raise awareness of the role that distracted driving plays in road safety. We urge all Canadians to take responsibility for their driving habits and Focus on Driving! On this site you will find an interactive quiz to help you identify the risks associated with driver distraction and learn about responsible driving strategies. Click here for more information about the Focus on Driving partners.
About the Canadian Wireless Telecommunications Association (CWTA)
The CWTA is the authority on wireless issues, developments and trends in Canada. It represents cellular, PCS, messaging, mobile radio, fixed wireless and mobile satellite carriers as well as companies that develop and produce products and services for the industry. The wireless industry is committed to good corporate citizenship. Recognizing the potential contribution of wireless devices to driver distraction, the CWTA has worked to raise consumer awareness of the need to use wireless devices responsibly. The Focus on Driving initiative is the next step in our continued commitment to promote responsible driving.
For more information about Focus on Driving, or to inquire about joining the initiative, contact us at info@FocusOnDriving.ca.
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