Distracted driving is a common problem, with over half of Canadians reporting that they use their cellphone behind the wheel. Doing this makes it four times more likely that you’ll get in a car crash, which could have serious consequences for your insurance policy. Here’s what every driver should know.
Defining distracted driving First, it’s important to note that there are several types of distracted driving. These are: • Visual distractions, which involve taking your eyes off the road. Examples include looking at a GPS or checking on passengers sitting in the back. • Manual distractions, which involve taking your hands off the wheel. Examples include reaching for something in a bag, eating or grooming oneself, which is more common than you might think. • Cognitive distractions, which involve focusing on something other than driving. Examples include listening to a podcast or having a conversation with passengers. For drivers, these three types of distraction carry a significantly high likelihood of being in a collision. Importantly, using a cellphone while driving combines all three types of distraction, making it one of the riskiest things you can do behind the wheel. Understanding distracted driving fines Getting caught for distracted driving can result in receiving a fine and demerit points. In NS, using a cellphone at the wheel will net you four demerit points as well as a fine ranging from $233 for a first offence to $578 for a third offence. Comprehending insurance consequences In addition to needlessly exposing you and your passengers to danger, distracted driving is likely to substantially increase your car insurance costs. In NS, a single distracted driving charge is enough to cause a 10% increase in premiums, while a second charge will, on average, lead to an extra 9% increase to your rate. Note that rate hikes can result from simply being caught using your phone while driving. If you get into an accident due to driving while distracted, afterwards, you may find that insurers refuse to sell you a policy. This will force you to seek out an alternative option such as high-risk car insurance, which is more costly. Getting affordable car insurance in NS Whether you’re trying to find coverage after a distracted driving charge or simply looking for a more advantageous policy, Eisenhauer Insurance is here to help. We provide a wide range of insurance products and services. Contact us today to speak to one of our brokers.