View Full Version : Ticketed for driving with handheld communication device
Punkrockjohn
09-26-2013, 07:10 PM
Just got the ticket today, I'm wondering if it's even a good idea to fight it. Apparently the charge is harsher if you fight it and lose the trial.
Kiyomi
09-26-2013, 07:38 PM
is it worth spending the time?
isnt the ticket like 100$ or something. and i assume it doesnt affect insurance.
Punkrockjohn
09-26-2013, 07:53 PM
is it worth spending the time?
isnt the ticket like 100$ or something. and i assume it doesnt affect insurance.
it's 155$ and no points, I could've sworn these sort of tickets affected your insurance?
Tozer
09-26-2013, 07:54 PM
Drivers who receive a summons or who contest their ticket by going to court may face a fine of up to $500.
Jenuine
09-26-2013, 08:00 PM
It will affect your insurance if you plead guilty or go to trial and are convicted.
r4mi5awi
09-26-2013, 08:01 PM
Hard to get caught yet hard to argue against. What's your proof? A cell phone looking pez dispenser? :p
Just take it and learn your lesson :(
Stathakos
09-26-2013, 08:31 PM
I tried taking it to court, and lost lol. the Cop lied saying I was driving with one hand on the wheel, and one hand on a cellphone that was off, all the while at the same time I was drinking a drink. -_- Idiot... anyways, the prosecutor offered me a $60 fine and I declined knowing I was innocent, my phone was in my lap, not in my hands (AS THE LAW STATES). But of course when Durham regional cops lie, they always get away with it:chuckle It does affect your insurance as I am constantly reminded so by my parents.. I have to pay $155 due soon. The prosecutor wanted $200 for me 'wasting the courts time' I felt like telling her to shove it, but again luckily the judge said no, and just handed me the $155 fine.
Bottom line: GO FOR THE DEAL. UNLESS you have notes of the ordeal, and how you aren't guilty. The law just states you can't have it in your hand. So if it was in your lap, write it down and take those sucka's to court.
Punkrockjohn
09-26-2013, 08:51 PM
I tried taking it to court, and lost lol. the Cop lied saying I was driving with one hand on the wheel, and one hand on a cellphone that was off, all the while at the same time I was drinking a drink. -_- Idiot... anyways, the prosecutor offered me a $60 fine and I declined knowing I was innocent, my phone was in my lap, not in my hands (AS THE LAW STATES). But of course when Durham regional cops lie, they always get away with it:chuckle It does affect your insurance as I am constantly reminded so by my parents.. I have to pay $155 due soon. The prosecutor wanted $200 for me 'wasting the courts time' I felt like telling her to shove it, but again luckily the judge said no, and just handed me the $155 fine.
Bottom line: GO FOR THE DEAL. UNLESS you have notes of the ordeal, and how you aren't guilty. The law just states you can't have it in your hand. So if it was in your lap, write it down and take those sucka's to court.
so basically your saying I should meet with the prosecutor to try and resolve it. Chances are they will reduce it and I should just take the offer?
Stathakos
09-26-2013, 08:54 PM
so basically your saying I should meet with the prosecutor to try and resolve it. Chances are they will reduce it and I should just take the offer?
Yes, but if you don't like the deal he gives you, you can take it to court, where the prosecutor will again make you another deal, usually lower. BUT its all discretion, so it could also be higher. take your pic I guess haha
That sounds fishy from the get go, why would a cop pull you over for a phone in your lap... if it was in your lap they wouldnt be able to see it.
I tried taking it to court, and lost lol. the Cop lied saying I was driving with one hand on the wheel, and one hand on a cellphone that was off, all the while at the same time I was drinking a drink. -_- Idiot... anyways, the prosecutor offered me a $60 fine and I declined knowing I was innocent, my phone was in my lap, not in my hands (AS THE LAW STATES). But of course when Durham regional cops lie, they always get away with it:chuckle It does affect your insurance as I am constantly reminded so by my parents.. I have to pay $155 due soon. The prosecutor wanted $200 for me 'wasting the courts time' I felt like telling her to shove it, but again luckily the judge said no, and just handed me the $155 fine.
Bottom line: GO FOR THE DEAL. UNLESS you have notes of the ordeal, and how you aren't guilty. The law just states you can't have it in your hand. So if it was in your lap, write it down and take those sucka's to court.
Genpu_Mz3
09-27-2013, 08:37 AM
the time and date should be on the ticket right? if you fight it, just bring in your phone log to prove you were not on the phone at that time.
Stathakos
09-27-2013, 09:20 AM
That sounds fishy from the get go, why would a cop pull you over for a phone in your lap... if it was in your lap they wouldnt be able to see it.
Exactly, the reason why he pulled me over was because I glanced down for about 2 seconds, and grabbed my drink. He thought I was reaching for a phone. But in court he said that the drink was the phone all along...
r4BBiT
09-27-2013, 10:32 AM
Exactly, the reason why he pulled me over was because I glanced down for about 2 seconds, and grabbed my drink. He thought I was reaching for a phone. But in court he said that the drink was the phone all along...
Well, why is your phone in your lap to begin with and what's the point of you glancing at it?
I think if you glance over it there is good change you would do something else with it once you got a text/call/email and this affects your focus on actual driving and surrounding. My suggestion to you is to stop complaining, pay the damn fine, and stop "glancing" over your phone.
N.B. Stop wasting courts time on things like that, our taxes can be spent in a better way!
SomeGuy
09-27-2013, 10:40 AM
Well, why is your phone in your lap to begin with and what's the point of you glancing at it?
I think if you glance over it there is good change you would do something else with it once you got a text/call/email and this affects your focus on actual driving and surrounding. My suggestion to you is to stop complaining, pay the damn fine, and stop "glancing" over your phone.
N.B. Stop wasting courts time on things like that, our taxes can be spent in a better way!
+1 to this
OP you f*cked up, distracted from the road while driving....drink or cell phone or dildo, it doesn't matter. Pay the fine and stop your whining.
+1 to the cop as well for enforcing a good law, distracted driving is what causes accidents not speeding.
tweak_s
09-27-2013, 11:06 AM
+1 to this
OP you f*cked up, distracted from the road while driving....drink or cell phone or dildo, it doesn't matter. Pay the fine and stop your whining.
+1 to the cop as well for enforcing a good law, distracted driving is what causes accidents not speeding.
Don't mean to be a dick because I agree with your POV but the poster r4bbiT was referring to wasn't the OP.
Back to the OP though, I think these tickets are starting to affect insurance.. which i guess is good for drivers bad for you. Too many bad drivers these days. And the fact that we're still allowed hands free makes me wonder how nad why there's these guys holding phones to their heads and driving. For real?
Whether you should fight it or not is up to you. Like you said, generally thats how all ticket "fights" go. If you win great, if you lose.. will then they always add some BS charge and say you were excused for something but now you pay the whole thing.
mazdaagain
09-27-2013, 01:36 PM
Exactly, the reason why he pulled me over was because I glanced down for about 2 seconds, and grabbed my drink. He thought I was reaching for a phone. But in court he said that the drink was the phone all along...
The Law:
The law makes it illegal for drivers to talk, text, type, dial or email using hand-held cell phones and other hand-held communications and entertainment devices. The law also prohibits drivers from viewing display screens unrelated to the driving task, such as laptops or DVD players, while driving. The use of hands-free devices is still permitted, and drivers may use hand-held devices to call 9-1-1.
'Hands-free' use means that apart from activating or deactivating the device, it is not held during use and the driver is not physically interacting with or manipulating it. Actions such as dialing or scrolling through contacts, or manually programming a GPS device, for example, are not allowed.
The device does not have to be "in your hands". It refers to a hand held device and using it or physically interacting with it. "glanced down for about 2 seconds" is considered to be physically interacting with the device, thereby being distracted by it.
Besides ... it's sitting in your lap .... are you trying to tell us that you just let the phone sit in your lap for your entire trip without using it at any time ?
You broke the law ... accept it. If you don't then you will do it again ... and get caught again.
I fully agree with this law. There are FAR too many asshats out there using there cellphones for calls/texting NON STOP... 9/10 if i see someone drifting lanes or driving slower than they should they are on their phone. This is when I wish I had a bag of rocks.
Reddie1337
09-27-2013, 02:46 PM
Wait, using anything that's not related to driving? As in police officers holding their cellphones to their ears, or them always looking at there computers while driving? Or how about changing a radio station? Or even talking with other people in the car? This law is too vague, and I hardly see a police officer driving without looking at their laptop, or their cell phones. It annoys me more that they do it, and it's illegal for regular citizens.
I am not saying I have never touched my phone, or hit the traffic button on my GPS, but I've only done it when I'm not in traffic, or not around anyone else. I use Siri as much as I can, that's the great thing about built in Bluetooth. There are people that are dangerous, and the law is a good idea, but maybe make your officers do it first before they act all high and mighty about it.
I am surprised to hear that there are even reduced fines for it, and I remember when it all came out, it was going to be demerit points on the fine as well. I would assume it will affect insurance because it's a moving violation.
geobur
09-27-2013, 02:51 PM
Besides ... it's sitting in your lap .... are you trying to tell us that you just let the phone sit in your lap for your entire trip without using it at any time ?
I'm going to play devils advocate here...I have a handsfree bluetooth device...and unless I am charging my phone in my car...I leave my phone in my lap or between my legs, and I don't interact with it at all other than to glance at it if someone calls to see who is calling first. (a split second then I use my bluetooth)
Also I listen to my music loud in my car so I leave it there for the vibration...
Just to point out that even though it is in my lap...I am not breaking any laws.
geobur
09-27-2013, 02:53 PM
Wait, using anything that's not related to driving? As in police officers holding their cellphones to their ears, or them always looking at there computers while driving? Or how about changing a radio station? Or even talking with other people in the car? This law is too vague, and I hardly see a police officer driving without looking at their laptop, or their cell phones. It annoys me more that they do it, and it's illegal for regular citizens.
I am not saying I have never touched my phone, or hit the traffic button on my GPS, but I've only done it when I'm not in traffic, or not around anyone else. I use Siri as much as I can, that's the great thing about built in Bluetooth. There are people that are dangerous, and the law is a good idea, but maybe make your officers do it first before they act all high and mighty about it.
I am surprised to hear that there are even reduced fines for it, and I remember when it all came out, it was going to be demerit points on the fine as well. I would assume it will affect insurance because it's a moving violation.
+1000
Default User
09-27-2013, 02:55 PM
The law just states you can't have it in your hand. So if it was in your lap, write it down and take those sucka's to court.
so it'll look like your yelling at your diok while driving.
Couldnt you get a detailed call list showing you werent on your phone at the time?
Reddie1337
09-27-2013, 02:59 PM
so it'll look like your yelling at your diok while driving.
Couldnt you get a detailed call list showing you werent on your phone at the time?
Problem is, maybe it's a text, or an email, or a game. I could see them using that against the ticketed driver.
Default User
09-27-2013, 03:09 PM
Problem is, maybe it's a text, or an email, or a game. I could see them using that against the ticketed driver.
if some jack ass hits me cause he was playing candy crush on his phone - I will be the one who ends up in jail
Reddie1337
09-27-2013, 03:16 PM
if some jack ass hits me cause he was playing candy crush on his phone - I will be the one who ends up in jail
Probably not good to admit that, but I see where you are coming from.
geobur
09-27-2013, 03:35 PM
if some jack ass hits me cause he was playing candy crush on his phone - I will be the one who ends up in jail
ya I would lose my shit...but the guy isn't going to be stupid enough to say "I'm sooo sorry I was so close to beating my candy crush record I totally forgot I was driving"
if the guy did say that I would almost feel sorry for him...as he must have been dropped on the head as a child :P
The Wolf
09-27-2013, 06:56 PM
if some jack ass hits me cause he was playing candy crush on his phone - I will be the one who ends up in jail
whatever man, if I'm about to beat a timed level I've been stuck on for a week, I'm gonna take that chance.
Besides ... it's sitting in your lap .... are you trying to tell us that you just let the phone sit in your lap for your entire trip without using it at any time ?
That has nothing to do with it. If it was in his lap and he wasn't using it (as he states) then he should not be punished. Doesn't matter if he was likely to have committed an offence shortly before or after, you can't prosecute based on probability.
MajesticBlueNTO
09-27-2013, 07:39 PM
this was posted today in The Star:
-->Cellphone law: Holding one even briefly while driving is illegal, Ontario court rules (http://www.thestar.com/news/crime/2013/09/27/its_illegal_to_even_hold_a_cellphone_while_driving _court_rules.html)<--
....from the article: But the Court of Appeal for Ontario stated in its judgment that the Crown does not have to prove whether a hand-held wireless communication device is working or not to get a conviction under the HTA (http://www.ontariocourts.ca/decisions/2013/2013ONCA0584.htm)
CloudPump
09-27-2013, 07:55 PM
Yes, it will affect insurance. This ticket has always been a rateable offence.
-Geoff
Stathakos
09-27-2013, 07:57 PM
Didn't realised I was being crucified. LOL the fact of the matter is, the cop lied. I had no problem with the decision. You don't know all the details of my case so easy, Jack McCoy. The fact that it was in my lap was because I had just gotten in the car, and hadn't put my phone in a spot yet. I literally got pulled over within 5 minutes of starting my car.
sawatsky thanks, exactly, I shouldn't have been charged with 'holding a device' because I wasn't 'holding it' by definition of the law.
r4BBiT you should leave your software developer position and become a lawyer! Oh wait nvm don't.
I agree I've learned my lesson. I don't ever use my phone while I'm driving.. That's the main point right?
The main thing that shocked me about this whole experience was the cop lying on the stand... Yikes.
The Wolf
09-27-2013, 08:03 PM
The main thing that shocked me about this whole experience was the cop lying on the stand... Yikes.
pretty much going to have a thread full of replies supporting police lying under oath.
schmat66
09-27-2013, 11:24 PM
that was you that got pulled over beside me??!!?? id take your ticket over me writing off my car that day
Punkrockjohn
09-28-2013, 01:45 AM
+1 to this
OP you f*cked up, distracted from the road while driving....drink or cell phone or dildo, it doesn't matter. Pay the fine and stop your whining.
+1 to the cop as well for enforcing a good law, distracted driving is what causes accidents not speeding.
Thats not the OP saying that lol. My argument is different
asyed
09-28-2013, 01:49 AM
im gonna say just pay the fine if there are no demerit points. Its not worth taking to court and making a big deal about it + fuel costs to get there and court costs....
Also while we are on the topic... Im assuming its the same thing ( you can get ticketed) to dial a number using your headunits display? ( not saying I do it alot but sometimes I end up having to dial the number via the built in directory of the headunit )....
Punkrockjohn
09-28-2013, 01:52 AM
that was you that got pulled over beside me??!!?? id take your ticket over me writing off my car that day
believe me man, at the end of the day I am not complaining. it was totally fair for him to charge me too. Im working on fixing the bluetooth in my car next weekend so I don't deal with this anymore. And ryan I'm really sorry about your car by the way no tuner deserves that fate for their car
miako
09-28-2013, 08:35 AM
I heard from 680news this morning that a woman had her phone on the passenger seat. She braked and the phone slid onto the floor. She lean over and picked it up while she was at a red light and the officer gave her a ticket for picking it up. She went to court, and she got convicted. I mean it sucks, but hey I guess there's no room for excuses.
mazdaagain
09-28-2013, 11:12 AM
pretty much going to have a thread full of replies supporting police lying under oath.
I doubt that the cop "lied". He saw you with something in your hand, pulled you over and found you with the cell phone in your lap. It's a fair assumption that you were handling your cell phone if it's in your lap. He has no reason to lie ... I pretty sure that the ticket would be upheld based solely on the fact that it was in your lap. You admitted that you glanced at it for 2 seconds ... That itself is a violation of the law and is by defintion "distracted driving ". If you are not using it then there is no reason for it to be in your lap
The Wolf
09-28-2013, 11:30 AM
I doubt that the cop "lied". He saw you with something in your hand, pulled you over and found you with the cell phone in your lap. It's a fair assumption that you were handling your cell phone if it's in your lap. He has no reason to lie ... I pretty sure that the ticket would be upheld based solely on the fact that it was in your lap. You admitted that you glanced at it for 2 seconds ... That itself is a violation of the law and is by defintion "distracted driving ". If you are not using it then there is no reason for it to be in your lap
The officer lied. How is saying he saw something he didn't see not a lie? He has his reasons for keeping his phone in his lap and is nobody's business if he's not using it.
Stathakos
09-28-2013, 04:47 PM
The officer lied. How is saying he saw something he didn't see not a lie? He has his reasons for keeping his phone in his lap and is nobody's business if he's not using it.
+1000
I doubt that the cop "lied". He saw you with something in your hand, pulled you over and found you with the cell phone in your lap. It's a fair assumption that you were handling your cell phone if it's in your lap. He has no reason to lie ... I pretty sure that the ticket would be upheld based solely on the fact that it was in your lap. You admitted that you glanced at it for 2 seconds ... That itself is a violation of the law and is by defintion "distracted driving ". If you are not using it then there is no reason for it to be in your lap
Had that been the case, I would have liked a distracted driving charge, and not a HANDHELD communication charge lol. anyway, Im done talking about my case.
Good luck to the op.
MyFirstMazda3
09-29-2013, 12:06 PM
I just left court Friday I took it to trial the cop never showed up so it's 50/50. The cop shows up just plea guilty then when he's there. You take the chance and no the punishment is not harsher why would it be?? & no points ... YET!
CloudPump
09-29-2013, 06:28 PM
I don't understand why everyone is so concerned about points. It takes SO many points before your license is suspended that you would actually have to try to earn enough before the old points fell off.
-Geoff
jchc91
09-29-2013, 10:40 PM
+1000
Had that been the case, I would have liked a distracted driving charge, and not a HANDHELD communication charge lol. anyway, Im done talking about my case.
Good luck to the op.
Should have just said you were diddling yourself and waited for their reaction
schmat66 What! Write off?? :(
We should make a "Oh f+ck I got a ticket" sub forum
schmat66
09-29-2013, 10:57 PM
Should have just said you were diddling yourself and waited for their reaction
schmat66 What! Write off?? :(
We should make a "Oh f+ck I got a ticket" sub forum
go look at my ride thing
fywdyl
06-04-2015, 12:56 PM
Thread revival:
So my wife got a ticket last night for checking directions at a red light. I know you're not suppose to touch the phone at all while in the car, but to be honest, majority of the people that are getting caught are the ones that touch it when the car is stopped. The people that SHOULD be caught (i.e. texting while the car is in motion, OR putting the phone on speaker and still HOLDING IT to talk) are less likely to be caught. I think they need to do a better job of punishing the ones that are causing the issues.
Anyway, end of rant. On a side note, the officer didn't write down the full license plate, but that's not a fatal error right?
MAZDArati
06-04-2015, 01:01 PM
The way it is unfortunately is described by this saying . " ask yourself if you ever gone fishing , if yes , have you ever caught a fish? Then ask yourself , did you only catch that one fish or did you catch all fish? " unfortunately its life. Sorry you have gotten a ticket for checking directions i can understand your frustration.
CloudPump
06-04-2015, 01:15 PM
Thread revival:
So my wife got a ticket last night for checking directions at a red light. I know you're not suppose to touch the phone at all while in the car, but to be honest, majority of the people that are getting caught are the ones that touch it when the car is stopped. The people that SHOULD be caught (i.e. texting while the car is in motion, OR putting the phone on speaker and still HOLDING IT to talk) are less likely to be caught. I think they need to do a better job of punishing the ones that are causing the issues.
Anyway, end of rant. On a side note, the officer didn't write down the full license plate, but that's not a fatal error right?
No, this is not a fatal error.
-Geoff
fywdyl
06-04-2015, 01:21 PM
The way it is unfortunately is described by this saying . " ask yourself if you ever gone fishing , if yes , have you ever caught a fish? Then ask yourself , did you only catch that one fish or did you catch all fish? " unfortunately its life. Sorry you have gotten a ticket for checking directions i can understand your frustration.
Tell that to my wife, haha. I know not to touch the phone at all.
ShibbyDibbyDoo
06-04-2015, 01:32 PM
#1 cause of accidents. Unfortunate for your wife. So does she get demerit points now? How do the new harsher penalties work?
Aitch
06-04-2015, 01:39 PM
The thing is, considering it's drastically less dangerous to be checking your phone while at a stop light, it makes a lot less sense to be ticketed there. Sure, you're reminding people not to touch their mobile devices, and police are getting their ticket numbers, but it's just not the major problem.
It's like tagging people for doing 5km/hr over the limit just to remind them not to speed, since there wasn't anyone around doing 40km/hr over the limit.
I think it's easier to see that you're using the phone while you're stopped
they can get a long hard look at what you're doing
fywdyl
06-04-2015, 01:48 PM
I think it's easier to see that you're using the phone while you're stopped
they can get a long hard look at what you're doing
That's my point. The process is flawed. Those using the phone while in motion will less likely be caught.
fywdyl
06-04-2015, 01:48 PM
#1 cause of accidents. Unfortunate for your wife. So does she get demerit points now? How do the new harsher penalties work?
No points, but if insurance does a check, then her rates will go up.
CloudPump
06-04-2015, 01:52 PM
#1 cause of accidents. Unfortunate for your wife. So does she get demerit points now? How do the new harsher penalties work?
New penalties do not go into effect until the fall.
There will be a campaign to make the public aware over the summer.
-Geoff
ottoyu34
06-04-2015, 01:55 PM
If I am not mistaken, demerit point does not affect insurance. But you ability to keep your license.
http://www.ontario.ca/driving-and-roads/understanding-demerit-points
CloudPump
06-04-2015, 02:11 PM
If I am not mistaken, demerit point does not affect insurance. But you ability to keep your license.
http://www.ontario.ca/driving-and-roads/understanding-demerit-points
Correct.
-Geoff
SomeGuy
06-04-2015, 02:31 PM
Even while stopped at a light you're supposed to be paying attention...what about the ambulance that needs to get through the intersection? What about the distracted driver behind you who is about to hit you? What about the light turning green and you not going (I HATE THIS)? I think the ticket is well deserved even if you're stopped.
staax
06-04-2015, 02:51 PM
Even while stopped at a light you're supposed to be paying attention...what about the ambulance that needs to get through the intersection? What about the distracted driver behind you who is about to hit you? What about the light turning green and you not going (I HATE THIS)? I think the ticket is well deserved even if you're stopped.
Agreed. If you're on your phone you're on your phone.
One of the dead giveaways while stopped at a light is the people who bury their heads in their lap... Come on, its not obvious at all what you're doing.
While it may not be as serious checking your phone while stopped at a light compared to while you're in motion, you're still distracted.
A good habit that my girlfriend and I agreed on is putting our cellphones in their holders backwards... That way I can't see the blinking light informing me of an email or text. If its an emergency - call me and it'll go through my Bluetooth!
SomeGuy
06-04-2015, 02:58 PM
Agreed. If you're on your phone you're on your phone.
One of the dead giveaways while stopped at a light is the people who bury their heads in their lap... Come on, its not obvious at all what you're doing.
While it may not be as serious checking your phone while stopped at a light compared to while you're in motion, you're still distracted.
A good habit that my girlfriend and I agreed on is putting our cellphones in their holders backwards... That way I can't see the blinking light informing me of an email or text. If its an emergency - call me and it'll go through my Bluetooth!
I just leave my phone in my pocket while driving...and it's always on "phone calls only" so it only rings, but in that case it goes through Bluetooth anyway. I can totally live without my phone for the 15 minutes to drive to/from work or the store or whatever...geeze.
Reddie1337
06-04-2015, 03:05 PM
What about a GPS on your dash or deck? They haven't started doing tickets for decks yet have they?
staax
06-04-2015, 03:20 PM
I just leave my phone in my pocket while driving...and it's always on "phone calls only" so it only rings, but in that case it goes through Bluetooth anyway. I can totally live without my phone for the 15 minutes to drive to/from work or the store or whatever...geeze.
Blackberry I assume? That's one thing I do miss about my android... Can't customize ring profiles like I could on my blackberry... Mind you it just might be my phone - not sure if others can do it.
But I have the vibrate turned on too so I find not having it on me at all works somewhat psychologically... If I don't hear it I might still feel it. I guess having it on silent would work too as calls would still go through Bluetooth... Anyway straying off topic now.
And Reddie, I thought GPS fall into the handheld electronics category too so you could get a ticket for that.
Never heard anything about decks though... They are in a fixed position where youre still sort of looking foward and now a lot of stuff can be controlled through the steering wheel too.
Edit: just realized you're talking about IN DASH GPS.
fywdyl
06-04-2015, 03:44 PM
Even while stopped at a light you're supposed to be paying attention...what about the ambulance that needs to get through the intersection? What about the distracted driver behind you who is about to hit you? What about the light turning green and you not going (I HATE THIS)? I think the ticket is well deserved even if you're stopped.
I'm not arguing that it's right to do it at a light. I'm arguing that ppl that do it while the vehicle is in motion is WAY less likely to get caught than someone doing it at a light.
What about the ambulance that needs to get through the intersection? It has a siren. So at that point in time, you look up and get out of the way.
What about the distracted driver behind you who is about to hit you? Even if the person is not looking at a phone, you can still get rear ended by this driver behind you. Not like you're looking at the rear view mirror all the time or looking straight ahead all the time when you're stopped at a light. It's like giving a ticket to someone for picking their nose at a light and not paying attention.
What about the light turning green and you not going? THIS I can totally agree on.
Whether she deserves the ticket or not, that's your opinion. MY opinion is that the person that is texting while driving is WAY more dangerous than someone checking their phone at a red light to make sure they're going the right way to get to their destination. It may be annoying, but I just think the level of punishment should fit the crime.
I'd much rather someone know where they're going as oppose to someone that makes a sudden turn because they missed a turn or something.
To Reddie's point, she checked the phone to get directions, how is that any different than checking the GPS or whatever? The government aren't always the smartest when it comes to passing laws or reforms, like the mandated reduction in insurance premiums.... but that's another topic...
ottoyu34
06-04-2015, 03:49 PM
What about a GPS on your dash or deck? They haven't started doing tickets for decks yet have they?
You shouldn't be interacting with the devices while you're driving. Any input should be done beforehand regardless of dash mounted or in deck systems.
Source: http://www.mto.gov.on.ca/english/safety/distracted-driving.shtml
SomeGuy
06-04-2015, 03:54 PM
I'm not arguing that it's right to do it at a light. I'm arguing that ppl that do it while the vehicle is in motion is WAY less likely to get caught than someone doing it at a light.
What about the ambulance that needs to get through the intersection? It has a siren. So at that point in time, you look up and get out of the way.
What about the distracted driver behind you who is about to hit you? Even if the person is not looking at a phone, you can still get rear ended by this driver behind you. Not like you're looking at the rear view mirror all the time or looking straight ahead all the time when you're stopped at a light. It's like giving a ticket to someone for picking their nose at a light and not paying attention.
What about the light turning green and you not going? THIS I can totally agree on.
Whether she deserves the ticket or not, that's your opinion. MY opinion is that the person that is texting while driving is WAY more dangerous than someone checking their phone at a red light to make sure they're going the right way to get to their destination. It may be annoying, but I just think the level of punishment should fit the crime.
I'd much rather someone know where they're going as oppose to someone that makes a sudden turn because they missed a turn or something.
To Reddie's point, she checked the phone to get directions, how is that any different than checking the GPS or whatever? The government aren't always the smartest when it comes to passing laws or reforms, like the mandated reduction in insurance premiums.... but that's another topic...
Fair points. I agree that catching the more dangerously distracted people would be ideal...the same in my ideal world, speeding is a non-issue...it's the dangerously speeding that are the problem.
Rebuttal:
Siren - usually they don't blare continuously, catching them early by using your eyes is ideal...if your house was on fire I bet you'd like the extra 3 seconds that might be saved if someone noticed before the fire truck had to slow down.
Rear ending - peripheral vision of surroundings even if you aren't looking behind or wherever is more likely to pick up on something than if you're staring at a phone screen, huge tunnel vision.
fywdyl
06-04-2015, 03:56 PM
Fair points. I agree that catching the more dangerously distracted people would be ideal...the same in my ideal world, speeding is a non-issue...it's the dangerously speeding that are the problem.
Rebuttal:
Siren - usually they don't blare continuously, catching them early by using your eyes is ideal...if your house was on fire I bet you'd like the extra 3 seconds that might be saved if someone noticed before the fire truck had to slow down.
Rear ending - peripheral vision of surroundings even if you aren't looking behind or wherever is more likely to pick up on something than if you're staring at a phone screen, huge tunnel vision.
Fair enough. A few seconds may make all the difference in saving someone.
I wasn't there when she got caught, so she could've been looking up or looking into her lap. Either way, I'm just ranting.
Thanks for entertaining me. :)
m_bisson
06-04-2015, 04:07 PM
The thing is, considering it's drastically less dangerous to be checking your phone while at a stop light, it makes a lot less sense to be ticketed there. Sure, you're reminding people not to touch their mobile devices, and police are getting their ticket numbers, but it's just not the major problem.
It's like tagging people for doing 5km/hr over the limit just to remind them not to speed, since there wasn't anyone around doing 40km/hr over the limit.
Not true. I was at a red light and a girl pulled up beside me. She was looking down texting and I released the brake to reposition my foot. As soon as she saw my car move in her peripheral vision, she took off right through the red light almost causing an accident.
6strings
06-04-2015, 10:12 PM
Not claiming that I am perfect, but handheld device while driving (stop light or not) is against the law.
I heard they are raising the fine for this. Be careful folks, pull into a parking lot (as inconvenient as that is) if you are looking for directions.
Girds
06-04-2015, 11:50 PM
Not claiming that I am perfect, but handheld device while driving (stop light or not) is against the law.
I heard they are raising the fine for this. Be careful folks, pull into a parking lot (as inconvenient as that is) if you are looking for directions.
Apparently they have cops sitting at bus stops in plain clothes catching people at red lights texting, and the new distracted driving charge is $1000 and 3 demerit points. Not sure if it was stated above
Canadianbacon
06-05-2015, 12:53 AM
Personal experience on serveal different occasions when i text or go on my phone cops driving by dont notice or see what im doing... If your not paying attention and check if a cop is beside you then your SOL. Mind you i have 15% tints all around.(flame suit protection enabled)
fywdyl
06-05-2015, 03:07 PM
Personal experience on serveal different occasions when i text or go on my phone cops driving by dont notice or see what im doing... If your not paying attention and check if a cop is beside you then your SOL. Mind you i have 15% tints all around.(flame suit protection enabled)
COOL STORY BRO....
asyed
06-05-2015, 03:14 PM
Serious question: let's say you have the phone mounted on the dash using a mount and the screen is on but you aren't interacting with it or are only making inputs like changing to the next track... Can you still get pulled over for pressing one button while not looking at the screen?
tweak_s
06-05-2015, 03:16 PM
Serious question: let's say you have the phone mounted on the dash using a mount and the screen is on but you aren't interacting with it or are only making inputs like changing to the next track... Can you still get pulled over for pressing one button while not looking at the screen?
I'd say yes. If it was on the mount and you're NOT touching it (e.g. as GPS) then that's fine. The moment you touch it , imo, you're interacting with the device with your hand and you could get pulled over. Regardless of "looking at it" or not, one can't really differentiate between looking AND touching or touching without looking.
XTOTHEL
06-05-2015, 03:18 PM
Serious question: let's say you have the phone mounted on the dash using a mount and the screen is on but you aren't interacting with it or are only making inputs like changing to the next track... Can you still get pulled over for pressing one button while not looking at the screen?
YES if they see you touch it, and you're doomed...
asyed
06-05-2015, 03:18 PM
Not even a light touch? Damn..
XTOTHEL
06-05-2015, 03:26 PM
Not even a light touch? Damn..
Maybe use "google now" or siri to skip songs?
asyed
06-05-2015, 03:27 PM
Tried it... But google now doesnt pick up my voice very well when I say "OK google"
Cab0oze
06-05-2015, 03:28 PM
Not even a light touch? Damn..
Maybe if you're caressing it gently they will leave you alone.
But on a more serious note, people need to put their goddamn phones away when they're driving. If you get caught, serves you right.
asyed
06-05-2015, 03:34 PM
Maybe if you're caressing it gently they will leave you alone.
But on a more serious note, people need to put their goddamn phones away when they're driving. If you get caught, serves you right.
Agreed. The only time I touch my phone is to change the track when I'm Bluetooth paired to my head unit. If its really important at least find a safe place to stop and then do what you need to do.
I'm half certain that the girl who rear ended me was on her phone but not 100% sure...
SomeGuy
06-05-2015, 03:37 PM
Agreed. The only time I touch my phone is to change the track when I'm Bluetooth paired to my head unit. If its really important at least find a safe place to stop and then do what you need to do.
I'm half certain that the girl who rear ended me was on her phone but not 100% sure...
uhhh...you just agreed that it serves you right if you get caught touching your phone to change tracks.
Even the OEM deck lets me change tracks over Bluetooth, don't know why you need to touch your phone.
Flagrum_3
06-05-2015, 05:17 PM
Maybe if you're caressing it gently they will leave you alone.
But on a more serious note, people need to put their goddamn phones away when they're driving. If you get caught, serves you right.
Agree....If someone needs their phone at hand that bad, they should invest in a Bluetooth earpiece and phone cradle...There is no excuse for handling their phone while driving...except an emergency..
No sympathy here for anyone getting caught.
_3
fboybcb
06-08-2015, 12:32 PM
Glad my new vehicle lets me change and talk on the phone hands free. :razz
Lmmorden
06-08-2015, 01:21 PM
... Or you can always .. Put in park/pull the ebrake.. turn your hazards on.. Turn off car .. And use it then.
When/if officer comes... Car stalled looking for tow/mechanic..
When done, "try" to start your car and what do you know... It works!!!
Lmao -all options considered
SomeGuy
06-08-2015, 01:31 PM
... Or you can always .. Put in park/pull the ebrake.. turn your hazards on.. Turn off car .. And use it then.
When/if officer comes... Car stalled looking for tow/mechanic..
When done, "try" to start your car and what do you know... It works!!!
Lmao -all options considered
If you are actually parked (like legit parked, even if it is at the side of the road), you can do whatever you want with your phone.
Lmmorden
06-08-2015, 01:32 PM
If you are actually parked (like legit parked, even if it is at the side of the road), you can do whatever you want with your phone.
Really?
Captain Mazda
06-08-2015, 02:36 PM
If you're legally parked then it's fine, but I don't know if you can get away with pulling over to the emergency shoulder just to play with your phone.
Also you're not actually allowed to touch your phone in traffic, even if it's held by a dock.
SomeGuy
06-08-2015, 02:46 PM
If you're legally parked then it's fine, but I don't know if you can get away with pulling over to the emergency shoulder just to play with your phone.
Also you're not actually allowed to touch your phone in traffic, even if it's held by a dock.
Yup, legally parked...if the side of the road you're on doesn't actually allow parking, then no dice.
m_bisson
06-08-2015, 05:02 PM
Yup, legally parked...if the side of the road you're on doesn't actually allow parking, then no dice.
You can pull over anywhere, as long as it's off the road.
jay93
06-08-2015, 11:29 PM
I don't know why this is a conversation! It just makes sense to have your focus on the road while driving.
Lmmorden
06-11-2015, 06:37 PM
That being said I'd like to think that if I'm stuck broken down in 4 lanes of traffic I'd be allowed to call for help instead of playing frogger with my life..
Flagrum_3
06-11-2015, 09:12 PM
That being said I'd like to think that if I'm stuck broken down in 4 lanes of traffic I'd be allowed to call for help instead of playing frogger with my life..
I think that would fall under an emergency. You could call 911 under those circumstances since there is a danger to you and others.
_3
Reymando
06-11-2015, 09:29 PM
Lol old post[emoji33]
m_bisson
06-13-2015, 09:56 AM
I think that would fall under an emergency. You could call 911 under those circumstances since there is a danger to you and others.
_3
Nothing more dangerous than a parked car ! Watch out!
Flagrum_3
06-13-2015, 11:06 AM
Nothing more dangerous than a parked car ! Watch out!
Read what he wrote 'closely': "I'm stuck broken down in 4 lanes of traffic", he didn't say 'parked' on the side of 4 lanes of traffic...Big difference.
_3
m_bisson
06-13-2015, 12:40 PM
Read what he wrote 'closely': "I'm stuck broken down in 4 lanes of traffic", he didn't say 'parked' on the side of 4 lanes of traffic...Big difference.
_3
Read what I wrote and don't assume there's sarcasm in it. Big difference.
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