A close up of a body cam on an officer's vest. (Photo courtesy of Huron County OPP).
The Ontario Provincial Police West Region is taking aim at distracted driving with the launch of its annual “Stay Focused” campaign.
Running from March 27 to April 3, the campaign will focus on both education and enforcement, with officers taking a zero-tolerance approach toward inattentive driving offences.
Police say distracted driving continues to be a major factor in fatal collisions on Ontario roads.
In 2024, inattentive driving was linked to 45 deaths in OPP-investigated crashes. In 2025, it contributed to 22 fatalities, and in 2026 so far, five deaths have already been attributed to distracted driving.
Inattentive driving includes any activity that takes a driver’s attention away from the road. This can include using a hand-held device, adjusting GPS or entertainment systems, eating or drinking, self-grooming, or tending to children or pets while driving.
Drivers convicted of distracted driving can face significant penalties, including fines, demerit points, licence suspensions, and increased insurance costs.
Staff Sergeant Julie McLeod with OPP West Region Traffic and Marine Services is urging drivers to make safe choices and for passengers to speak up when they see unsafe behaviour.
More information on distracted driving laws and road safety initiatives is available on the OPP website.