Distractions at the Wheel: Three Questions Answered

Distractions behind the wheel have become a real problem that is the root cause of many major and even fatal car crashes. For anyone who still has trouble getting the message, let's repeat it once again: if you're sitting in the driver's seat, your job is to drive... and nothing else!

There are several laws in Quebec aimed at preventing distractions while driving and the law enforcement is there to enforce them, but some are unclear or subject to interpretation.

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So, here are three questions answered about what the law says.

What is Allowed with GPS and Mobile Navigation Apps?

The same article of the Highway Safety Code also concerns navigation devices or GPS. To comply with the law, these devices must be on a fixed support in the car, which excludes holding them in your hand. A police officer could therefore accuse you of holding a device designed to transmit information if you're holding a GPS device.

As GPS units are being replaced by applications on smartphones, similar caution is warranted. You can't have your phone in your hand at any time. Program your destination before you leave and use hands-free voice instructions while driving.

How is a Vaping Device a Distraction?

Just like eating or applying makeup while driving, vaping can take your attention off the road. And in a way, the law may see it as using a cell phone while driving. Indeed, some vaporizers have a miniature screen and buttons for adjustment. However, article 443.1 of the Highway Safety Code allows you to consult screens that display only information relevant to the driving of the vehicle or related to the operation of its original equipment.

In short, even a vaporizer can be constituted a distraction while driving, if it has a lighted screen displaying information and adjustment buttons to manipulate.

How Zoning Out...?

Of course, there are other forms of distraction besides cell phones and touch screens. We sometimes tend to see driving as an automatic process. As a result, some people who are preoccupied, stressed out, or upset become too absorbed in their thoughts while driving. This is called cognitive distraction - the equivalent of sleeping with your eyes open!

The SAAQ conducted an awareness campaign on this very subject this fall, highlighting the dangers that intrusive thoughts can do to your driving. The law states that you should not drive if you are not in the right mental state to do so. Mental preoccupation will not hold up as a defence in court.

In short, it is very important to follow the golden rule when driving: never get on the road without being 100% focused on the wheel!