Crime, Traffic Manitoba Introduces Harsher Penalties for Drivers Caught Texting While Driving

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We live in a era where there is a hunger for instant gratification. A notification pops up on your phone, and you immediately need to read that text message, or view that video of a cat playing the piano.

Beginning November 1, 2018, that instant gratification is going to cost you a lot more if you do it while you’re behind the wheel.

Anyone caught using a cellphone or other hand-operated electronic devices while driving will be subject to a $672.00 fine and 5 demerits (previously $203 and 2 demerits)

In addition, offenders will receive a three-day roadside licence suspension for the first offense, and a seven-day suspension for the next one if it occurs within 10 years of the first offense. There will be a $50 licence reinstatement fee to get your license back.

Distracted driving in Manitoba was the lead cause of collisions causing serious injury in 2017. Thirty people lost their lives and 184 people were seriously hurt last year because someone chose not to put their cell phone down.