Quebec video takes aim at texting and driving

Quebec has taken a unique approach to convincing drivers of the dangers of texting and driving with this provocative video.

Risk Management News

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Quebec has taken a unique approach to convincing drivers of the dangers of texting and driving with this provocative video.

Quebec’s auto insurance board has released a video campaign to encourage drivers to stop texting while on the road, featuring a wartime re-enactment of a soldier who risks his life to deliver a message to the front line.

Chased by dogs, shot at by snipers and narrowly avoiding land mines are just a few of the dangers the soldier faces.

When he finally arrives to deliver the message, it simply reads: ‘What are we having for supper?’

The Societe de l’assurance automobile du Quebec’s (SAAQ’s) campaign’s tagline then states: ‘Don’t risk your life for a trite message.’

According to the Canadian Automobile Association (CAA), cell phones are one of the most common distractions for road users, as drivers engaged in text messaging are 23 times more likely to be involved in a crash than non-distracted drivers.

Insurer uses app to curb distracted driving
Just this week, belairdirect has launched a new mobile app aimed at curbing distracted driving.

Part of the ‘Seriously...Just Drive’ awareness campaign, the ‘bumpr’ app  automatically senses and responds to incoming calls and text messages when a vehicle is moving, according to the insurer.

The app is free for Canadian drivers, and is available for Android smartphones. (continued.)
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The app can redirect calls to voicemail, temporarily block various kinds of alerts and notifications (such as social media notifications) and send a pre-selected response to incoming text messages, without requiring the driver to touch the phone.

In Ontario, the numbers of teenage drivers engaged in texting behind the wheel are astounding, with some 108,000 reporting to have texted while driving at least once in the past year – representing more than one-third of licensed Ontario students in Grades 10 to 12, according to a survey conducted for the Centre of Addiction and Mental Health.

Ontario has introduced tougher fines and penalties for distracted driving, including stepped-up enforcement. Since Queen’s Park passed the distracted driving law that makes it illegal to use a handheld device behind the wheel, roughly 300,000 charges have been laid.

 

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