We know that being convicted on any ticket can increase your insurance, but insurance companies categorize convictions into minor, major, or criminal. With the fine for distracted driving being increased soon, will we see a difference in how the ticket is categorized?
We were able to ask John Bordignon of State Farm Canada a few questions about how insurance companies handle distracted driving.
Q. As you many know, the distracted driving campaign is going on by the OPP this week and next week the fine for hand-held tickets are going to (nearly) double. So, how are insurance companies dealing with hand-held tickets?
John: We encourage everyone to obey the rules of the road in their respective jurisdictions. Driving fines, infractions and convictions can have an adverse effect on your driving record. A clean driving record is the most important thing in terms of keeping your auto insurance rates down.
Q. With distracted driving being named by the OPP the number one killer on roads in Ontario, has there been any push to have insurance companies deal with the convictions as major rather than minor?
John: The severity and implementation of motor vehicle fines and convictions are based on the laws of Ontario and how they are interpreted by the police and courts of law. State Farm supports laws and efforts that save lives and help keep everyone safer on our roads.
Q. Is there any program for State Farm to educate their new drivers on distracted driving?
John: Celebrate My Drive, the State Farm signature community relations program launched last year, encourages teens to celebrate getting their driver’s licenses while practicing safe driving habits. It’s an exciting, large-scale celebration designed to rally communities across the U.S. and Canada to support new drivers while working to prevent teen crashes, reduce injuries and save lives. State Farm also administers this teen driver safety website to help educate teens and their parents about the importance of staying safe behind the wheel.
