Safe Driving Starts with You

Distracted driving is dangerous and can be fatal. Learn how you can stay safer on the road and protect others.

What is distracted driving?

Distracted driving happens when you aren’t focused on the road or your responsibilities as a driver. Distractions reduce awareness, impair judgement and prevent you from driving safely, and can include:

  • texting or using a mobile device
  • talking on the phone
  • using the navigation or entertainment system
  • eating or drinking
  • loud music or sounds

In 2016, distracted was a contributing factor in 21% of fatal collisions in Canada and 27% of serious injury collisions. Learn more: Distracted driving (Government of Canada)

Remove distractions

Safe driving starts with you. To help make roads safer for everyone, you can:

  • put your mobile device away before driving
  • pull over safely if you need to make a call or send a text
  • plan your route ahead of time to avoid using the navigation system while driving
  • make sure you and your passengers are comfortable before you start driving (you can adjust vehicle temperature or music volume)

Penalties for distracted driving

In Nova Scotia, drivers can be fined and get demerit points for using mobile devices while driving. Learn more: Fines for distracted driving