OPP charging less people for talking on phones while driving

Drivers seem to be getting the message when it comes to distracted driving, says OPP traffic staff Sgt. Ken Mantey.

In this month’s distracted driving safety blitz, the OPP laid about six charges. In May, there were more than 20 charges laid.

“I know in my travels throughout the region during the campaign, I personally didn’t see one person using their cell phone while driving,” said Mantey. “I did see people pulled over … on the shoulder to use their cell phones.”

While he believes the message is hitting home, there is still a lot of work that needs to be done. The campaign was only on OPP-patrolled highways in the Northwest Region.

Using cell phones and other electronic devices while behind the wheel is probably seen more in a municipal setting and is difficult to spot on the highways, he added.

“It is a distraction and I think we need to change people’s attitudes with their driving,” he said.

“Thunder Bay is a 10-minute drive from across the city. How important is that call that you can’t wait 10 minutes to take it?”