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Distracted Driving in Ontario: What It Means for Personal Injury Claims

26 Jun, 2025

Distracted driving is one of Ontario’s leading causes of motor vehicle accidents. Even a momentary distraction, such as glancing at a text message or adjusting a GPS, can have life-altering consequences. For injured individuals, these incidents can quickly turn into complex traffic accident lawsuits in Ontario, with long-term physical, emotional, and financial impacts.

At MK Law, we help clients understand how distracted driving in Ontario affects personal injury claims and what steps are necessary to secure the compensation they deserve.

What Counts as Distracted Driving in Ontario?

Under Ontario’s Highway Traffic Act, distracted driving includes any activity that takes a driver’s attention away from the road. This can include:

Using a handheld device (e.g., texting, calling, or browsing)
Eating, drinking, or grooming while driving
Interacting with a GPS or entertainment system
Reaching for objects in the vehicle

Ontario has some of the strictest distracted driving laws in Canada. As of recent updates, fines can reach up to $1,000 for a first offence, with demerit points and license suspensions for repeat infractions. While these penalties are severe, the legal consequences extend beyond traffic court when injuries are involved.

How Distracted Driving Impacts Injury Claims

Proving that the other driver was distracted can be key to establishing fault in a personal injury case. Distracted driving often amounts to negligence, a core factor in determining liability under Ontario’s tort system.

If you were injured due to another driver’s inattention, your case may fall under personal injury claims for distracted driving. These claims often seek compensation for:

Medical expenses and rehabilitation
Lost wages and reduced earning capacity
Pain and suffering
Long-term care and support needs

MK Law carefully investigates the circumstances of each crash, gathering evidence such as police reports, phone records, witness statements, and traffic camera footage to support your claim.

Navigating Traffic Accident Lawsuits in Ontario

When distracted driving leads to serious injury, accident victims may have the right to pursue a civil lawsuit in addition to receiving Statutory Accident Benefits. A traffic accident lawsuit in Ontario typically focuses on securing damages from the at-fault driver, particularly when the injuries are considered severe and permanent under the Insurance Act.

These cases require clear documentation and timely action. Our legal team ensures that every claim is built on solid legal footing, supported by medical evidence, accident reconstruction, and a complete understanding of how the distraction contributed to the crash.

The Role of Legal Guidance in Distracted Driving Claims

In distracted driving cases, insurance companies may attempt to dispute liability or minimize payouts. That’s where experienced legal representation can make a significant difference. At MK Law, we advocate for our clients from the moment of impact to resolution, ensuring that each case receives the attention, strategy, and care it deserves.

We understand the lasting effects of distracted driving injuries and are committed to helping clients move forward with stability and confidence.

Talk to MK Law About Your Options

If you or a loved one has been injured due to distracted driving in Ontario, don’t navigate the legal process alone. MK Law supports your recovery by pursuing fair and comprehensive compensation.

We offer free consultations to assess your case and outline your next steps. Your well-being is our priority, and we’re ready to help you regain it.