Believe it or not, distracted driving laws aren't as straightforward as you may think. And there are a lot of myths about distracted driving that circle around online.
While it's common knowledge that using your cell phone or other electronic devices is prohibited while driving, whether or not you can eat or drink behind the wheel is where things can be questionable. Stick around to learn more about whether or not it's illegal to eat and drive below.
Can you eat while you are driving?
No specific law in Ontario states that you aren't allowed to eat while driving. That said, if you do decide to eat while operating a motor vehicle, you could wind up with a distracted driving charge.
For example, let's say you're on your way to work and you accidentally spill your coffee on your seat. As you rummage through your glove box for napkins, you speed past a police officer in a park zone. In this scenario, law enforcement could ticket you for distracted driving.
Careless driving and dangerous driving laws in Ontario
While distracted driving falls under Highway Traffic Laws, dangerous driving is considered a criminal offence and is therefore listed in the Criminal Code of Canada. Here's what happens when you're charged with either:
Careless driving
Careless driving in Ontario can lead to serious penalties. These consequences highlight the importance of attentive driving to ensure road safety. Further details and implications will be discussed below:
- Monetary fines that can range anywhere from $400 to $2,000
- A six month jail sentence
- Licence suspension for up to two years
- Six demerit points on your licence
Dangerous driving
Dangerous driving in Ontario is a serious offense with severe consequences. These significant penalties underscore the importance of responsible driving. We will explore these consequences in more detail below:
- A minimum $1,000 fine
- Suspension of your drivers licence
- A criminal record
- If you cause bodily harm to a third-party, you'll have a jail term of up to 10 years
- If you cause death to a third-party, you can receive a sentence of 14 years to a life sentence
What can or can't you do while driving
Understanding distracted driving laws is important to being a more responsible driver. So, what exactly can or can't you do while operating a motor vehicle?
Can't do
If your vehicle is on and you're moving or stopped at a light, you aren't able to use your phone, GPS device, do your makeup, or other activities that can make you distracted. If you have a habit of using your phone, make sure you know where you're headed before getting on the road and enable the voice commands setting on your device. If your GPS is securely mounted or built into your vehicle you may also be able to use your voice commands to program your destination in the event that your route changes or you decide to go to a different destination.
Can do
Drinking and eating food while driving is fine, as long as it doesn't impede your ability to drive safely and with due care.
How can I become a better driver?
Penalties of distracted driving and dangerous driving are severe and meant to deter those for making Canadian roads unsafe. If you have a fear of driving, or wish to become a good driver in general, taking a drivers education course and brushing up on your driving laws and regulations frequently is always recommended.
You should also avoid driving and eating, and other activities that can cause you to be distracted while you're on the road. The more you're aware of your surroundings, the better you'll be at being able to respond to challenges that show up on the road.
Like with all skills, practice makes perfect. Learning from a driver who has years of experience and a clean driving record can help you pick up on safe driving habits over time.
Ensure you're protected while behind the wheel with quality car insurance
Anything can happen while you're on the road, which is why having the right auto insurance in place is important to protecting your interests and finances. Here are the policies most Canadians opt for:
Contact BrokerLink for car insurance today
Whether you have questions about what the difference is between collision vs. comprehensive coverage, want more information about the safe driver discount, or have any other questions about insurance related topics, look no further than BrokerLink.
At BrokerLink, we have years of experience partnering with Canadians who are on the hunt for affordable car insurance that doesn't compromise their level of coverage.
We've got locations across Canada, so there's a chance we may be in your neighbourhood! To work with one of our brokers in person, don't hesitate to visit us throughout the week. If you aren't close by, you can also speak with a broker over the phone. Alternatively, if you're on the go, use our online quote tool for a free, competitive car insurance quote right on your device!
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FAQs on the legality of eating while driving
Can you drive after eating?
Yes, there is no law in Canada that states drivers are unable to operate a motor vehicle after eating food. While there is also no law that specifically states that you are unable to eat and drive at the same time, doing so can lead to distracted driving habits that put you at risk of being pulled over by the police or being involved in a collision.
Can you drink coffee in a car?
Yes, you can drink coffee in the car as long as it does not cause a distraction or negatively impact your ability to safely operate your vehicle. Motorists must ensure safe operation of their vehicle at all times. As soon as you are unable to do so, you can be charged with distracted driving.
How much is the fine if you are charged under Ontario's distracted driving laws?
Ontario's distracted driving laws are meant to keep motorists and pedestrians safe. If you are fined for using a hand held phone, applying makeup, or using another electronic device that impedes on your ability to safely operate your vehicle, you'll be fined a minimum of $615 for your first offence and receive three demerit points and a three day licence suspension.
If you have any questions, contact one of our local branches.
