Hamilton says distracted driving responsible for nearly 20 per cent of collisions in the city

Hamilton says that distracted driving was a contributing factor in 19.1 per cent of fatal and injury collisions between 2017-2021.

The findings came from the city’s 2021 Annual Collision Report.

The city also says distracted driving has become the leading cause of death on Ontario roads, ranking 15.2 per cent higher than impairment.

Hamilton and Hamilton Police Service are reminding driver to keep their focus on the road.

“Hamilton Police Services continues to monitor driver behaviour across the city, particularly in busy travel areas and areas with higher numbers of vulnerable road users, including community safety zones,” said police in a news release.

The city and police are encouraging motorists to:

• Set their playlist, podcast, GPS and other entertainment functions before you drive.
• Review directions to a destination before driving.
• Avoid eating or drinking while driving.
• Ensure Bluetooth is properly connected before departure.
• Prepare children and passengers with everything they need before putting the vehicle into drive.
• Do not text, use apps, take phone calls or check social media while driving.

In 2021, police say they issued 240 tickets related to distracted driving and so far in 2022 have issued 123 tickets.