How distracted driving affects auto insurance premiums in Ontario

What is distracted driving in Ontario?

Distracted driving laws in Ontario apply to:

• using a phone or other hand-held wireless device to text or dial (except calling emergency services)
• using a hand-held electronic entertainment device (such as a tablet)
• having a display screen visible to the driver that is unrelated to driving
• programming a GPS on a cell phone or hand-held communication device

You can use hands-free wireless communications devices with an earpiece, lapel button or Bluetooth. You can also use your phone or GPS device, as long as it is securely mounted on the dashboard.

For more information, refer to Ontario’s distracted driving information page. 

Note: Even if your car has self-driving features, you still must be attentive and in control behind the wheel. You can still receive a distracted driving ticket in Ontario if you’re holding your phone. 

What should you avoid while driving?

To stay safe on the roads, avoid all driving distractions, including eating, drinking, and smoking. While they may not fall under distracted driving laws in Ontario, you could still be charged with dangerous or careless driving, which are both treated as criminal driving offences in Ontario and come with harsher consequences. 

Also read: What are the 3 types of traffic tickets in Ontario?

Don’t read a book, don’t reach for the fallen items, and by all means, get ready for work before you leave. Don’t leave clipping your nails or applying lipstick to things you can do in a car.

What are the fines and penalties for distracted driving in Ontario?

The penalties for distracted driving vary depending on your licence class and the number of convictions. If you have a full G license, here are the fines you’ll face: 

If you hold a G1 or G2 license, you’ll face the same fines, but you will not incur any demerit points. Instead, your license will be suspended for 30 days for a first conviction, 90 days for a second, and the third time, you’ll be removed from the graduated licensing system.

How does distracted driving affect car insurance?

As with other driving convictions, distracted driving will increase your auto insurance premiums. However, the actual percentage increase you’ll experience will depend on your situation, including your city of residence, car make and model, age, license class and insurance company. 

According to Ratehub data, you can expect to experience a rate increase of anywhere from 100-150% for one distracted driving conviction, and 100-200% for two convictions. Three distracted driving convictions will push you into the facility market, where increases can be upwards of 150%. 

Even one major conviction on your driving record will classify you as a high-risk driver and force you to enter the non-standard market, which is why premiums will increase by at least 100%. The more convictions you have, the more you’ll pay for coverage. 

Also read: What is the total cost of getting a traffic ticket in Ontario?

Sample scenarios

The tables below illustrate how distracted driving can affect auto insurance premiums for various drivers. We compared the quotes of two driver profiles, each with a clean driving record, against those of the same drivers who had been convicted of distracted driving. We calculated the total costs and percentage increases they’ll pay over three years (the period insurers use to assess driving records). 

The data show that one distracted driving conviction can increase premiums by over 100%, with two convictions resulting in increases of 150% or higher compared to maintaining a clean driver profile.

According to Ratehub.ca’s car insurance calculator, the monthly insurance premium for Driver A shot up by about 123%. After the second offence, rates increased by about 165%. In contrast, Driver B saw a 119% increase for one distracted driving conviction and a 166% spike when two convictions were applied. Both drivers were pushed into the facility market when three convictions were used, meaning they’ll need to work with a specialized high-risk broker to find coverage. 

The sample scenarios highlight the realistic insurance differences varying drivers will experience, based on rating factors such as location, car make and model and age. 

^{Note: The data is based on a G-licensed driver over the age of 25. They do not account for inflation increases or rate changes due to license suspension. Actual costs will depend on your age, driving history, insurer and vehicle.}

Driver A

Driver B

Tips to lower your premiums after a distracted driving conviction

Shop for quotes

A distracted driving conviction on your record will classify you as a high-risk driver. To find manageable premiums, your best bet is to shop the market and compare auto insurance quotes. You may also want to consider working with a broker who specializes in high-risk insurance.

Use telematics

Instead of paying a set rate for insurance, consider using telematics or usage-based insurance. This can help you get a break in your rates if you exhibit good, consistent driving behaviour. 

Bundle your policies 

Bundling your home and auto insurance policy is another step towards lowering your premiums. Most providers will reward you for being loyal by offering discounts.

Keep a clean driving record

Driving safely and within the rules of the road will lead to lower premiums over time. Remove any distractions while driving, such as turning off your phone, blocking notifications and using hands-free options like voice commands.

Also read: Tips on how to save on your car insurance

The bottom line

Driving distracted isn’t just dangerous, it’s expensive. Even one conviction on your driving record can more than double your insurance premiums, resulting in costly out-of-pocket fees. It’s not just the initial fine and license suspension to worry about; it’s the long-term financial implications on your insurance that make distracted driving an expensive mistake. 

If you have a distracted conviction(s) on your record, one of the best ways to lower your premiums is to shop the market. Compare auto insurance quotes online today to find the right coverage for you at a lower rate. 

Also read

• What is the total cost of getting a traffic ticket in Ontario?
• Can you get affordable car insurance after a DUI in Canada?
• How does a careless driving charge affect auto insurance in Ontario?
• 15 ways to get cheap car insurance in Canada