THUNDER BAY – A local motorist likely trying to gain social media clout now faces a fine and possible licence suspension because of his distracted driving. The temptation to post on social media is very strong. However, there are serious issues even beyond possible fines. In some cases, police have reported that people have seen accident images posted on social media of accidents harming or even killing family members posted before any official notification can be made.
Thunder Bay Police report that “Police and firefighters were dispatched just before 8 pm on Tuesday, May 14, 2019, to a collision that had just taken place at the corner of John and High Streets.
Police say that a male driving by slowed down and held his mobile phone outside of the driver-side window to record video of the collision. The driver obstructed traffic and drove right up to first responders while they worked the scene.
The male was stopped by officers and issued a ticket for Driving While Holding a Communication Device. He now faces a $615 fine, three points and a three-day license suspension upon conviction.
Police would like to remind the public to ensure they are not driving distracted, even if they believe they see a viral opportunity.
The public is also reminded to approach collision scenes with caution for the safety of the victims, other area motorists and pedestrians, and first responders at the scene.
This incident took place on the day Thunder Bay Police and other law enforcement agencies across the province kicked off the 2019 Drive Safe Campaign. This year’s theme for the province-wide initiative is “Distracted Driving Ruins Lives. Drive Safe.”
Police across Ontario report that distracted driving remains one of the leading causes of collisions, injuries, and deaths on our roadways.
