Distracted Driving in Manitoba

• Illegal Activity: Using hand-operated electronic devices (like cellphones, smartphones, tablets) while driving is prohibited in Manitoba.
• First Offense: Caught using such devices while driving? Expect a three-day license suspension.
• Subsequent Offenses: Further violations lead to a seven-day suspension.
• Additional Penalties: A conviction comes with a $672 fine and a five-level demotion on the Driver Safety Rating (DSR) scale.
• Serious Consequences: Distractions causing traffic law violations or collisions can lead to charges of imprudent, careless, or dangerous driving.
• Further Charges: Offenses caused by distractions (e.g., ignoring traffic signals) result in fines, demerits, and additional penalties on the DSR scale.

Penalties & Fines

Hand-held Device Ban in Manitoba

Using devices like smartphones, iPods, or tablets while driving is illegal.

Penalties for Non-compliance

• First Offence: 3-day driver’s license suspension.
• Subsequent Offences: 7-day suspension.
• Additional Penalties: $672 fine and a decrease of five levels on the Driver Safety Rating (DSR) scale upon conviction.

Severe Cases and Additional Charges

• Potential Charges: Careless driving, dangerous driving, or criminal negligence.
• Consequences: Severe penalties including possible jail time and driving interventions.
• Related Offences: Charges related to specific traffic violations caused by distractions.