(CITY OF KAWARTHA LAKES, ON.) – The Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) initiated the Distracted Driving Campaign on Saturday, March 8 and it is in effect until Friday, March 14, 2014. During this time, the OPP will be doing its part to eliminate the threat of distracted driving through its own awareness raising efforts and focused enforcement of distracted driving laws throughout the province.
On March 11, 2014 an OPP officer observed a vehicle travelling on Highway 35 near Edgewood Road and noted that the driver was using a cell phone. The officer activated the lights and sirens but the distracted driver did not see the cruiser for quite some time, eventually pulling to the shoulder of the highway.
As a result of the interaction, Keith FISHER, 21 years of age, of Manilla, is charged with driving with hand held communication device and with failing to stop on right for emergency vehicle.
The accused faces fines totalling $645.00.
The OPP is reminding motorists that on March 18, 2014 the current distracted driving fine of $155 will jump to $280 (this includes the increased $225 fine plus a $50 victim fine surcharge and $5 court cost).