WINNIPEG – Thousands of Winnipeggers are guilty of using a cellphone while driving, a dangerous offence that could become a lot more expensive for Manitobans.
“If the numbers continue to be where they are, we would consider further measures,” Justice Minister Andrew Swan said.
Ontario recently tabled legislation that would increase the fine for distracted driving up to $1,000 and three demerit points.
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Right now Manitoba has a distracted driving fine of $200 with two demerits, but provincial officials will be watching as Ontario’s new law comes into effect.
While Swan doesn’t plan to change Manitoba’s law any time soon, it is a possibility.
“One of the things we could do in the future if we think it’s the right way to go, is to increase the number of demerits, so not only would there be a fine, it would have a longer impact on your Autopac rates,” said Swan.
Since the law took effect in 2010, the number of tickets Winnipeg police have issued is in the thousands. This year alone police have handed out 1,040 tickets.
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