Don’t let distractions disturb your drive.
Every day, drivers face all kinds of distractions that increase their risks while driving. From notifications and texts to music selection, chatting with passengers and chowing down, these distractions can lead to collisions – and even fatal crashes.
What is distracted driving?
Distracted driving is anything that diverts your attention from the road. However, the most dangerous (and preventable) behaviour is using a hand-held electronic device while behind the wheel.
Distracted driving is dangerous driving
Here’s why:
Reduced reaction time: When you’re not looking at the road, you take away the time you may need to react to something unexpected. These few seconds can be the difference between preventing a crash or causing one.
Increased risk of collisions: Distractions can cause you to swerve, run red lights, or fail to notice other road users, like pedestrians, cyclists, or motorcycle riders, increasing the likelihood of an accident.
Fatal consequences: Being distracted while driving, even just for two seconds, is all it takes to cause a fatal crash. On average, one in three deaths on Manitoba roads involves a distracted driver.
‘Block’ distractions with Do Not Disturb
With so many distractions, it can be challenging to stay focused on the road. Thankfully, there is a way to reduce the temptation of phone distractions: enable the ‘Do Not Disturb’ function.
What is Do Not Disturb?
Most smartphones will have a ‘Do Not Disturb’ function that blocks incoming calls, messages and notifications while you’re driving. By activating this feature, you can make sure your phone doesn’t distract you while you’re on the road.
How to turn on ‘Do Not Disturb’
It’s quick and simple! Here’s how to activate it on your phone:
For iPhone:
- Go to Settings > Do Not Disturb
- Scroll to Driving section
- Choose the option to automatically activate Do Not Disturb when driving.
For Android:
- Open the Settings app.
- Navigate to Connections > Do Not Disturb
- Enable the ‘While Driving’ option to activate automatically or manually turn on the feature.
Distracted Driving Laws in Manitoba
In Manitoba, distracted driving laws are strict. Distracted driving can result in fines up to $672 and 5 demerit points. Repeated offences could lead to a suspension of your driver’s license.
You can learn more about distracted driving suspensions and penalties here.
Remember, there’s a time and place to scroll, daydream, eat a sandwich or fix your make-up – and it’s not while you’re behind the wheel. Disconnect from all distractions, and just drive.e-up – and it’s not while you’re behind the wheel. Disconnect from all distractions, and just drive.