Auto insurance impacted by distracted driving infractions
Distracted driving is becoming an epidemic in the United States resulting in nearly 3,500 deaths each year. While each state has its own laws with regards to distracted driving, Michigan is a hands-free state and those caught violating the law will be punished.
Michigan’s texting law prohibits drivers from reading, manually typing or sending a text message while driving. Drivers convicted of a first offense may be fined $100, with subsequent offenses of $200. Is that enough to deter people from distracted activities while driving? Plus, what is the real cost of distracted driving?
The Real Cost of Distracted Driving
For those Michigan-residents who choose to drive distracted, not only are they putting themselves and others at risk, but they are increasing their likelihood of an accident, making them high-risk. If caught driving distracted, a recent Forbes article that looked at insurance rates across the country show that Michigan is the costliest state for distracted drivers, where violators can see their annual rates shoot up by an average of 26%, or $681. That increases hits almost $2,000 if living in Detroit, the country’s costliest place for auto insurance.
Other countries, such as Canada, are taking much stronger stances on distracted driving. Take Ontario, Canada for example; starting January 1, 2019, Drivers convicted of distracted driving (includes activities such as cell phone use, eating, reading, etc…) under the new laws will be punished with a licence suspension, a hefty fine and demerit points. Upon conviction of first offence there will be 3 days suspension and $1,000 fine; a second offence could have a 7 day-suspension and $2,000 fine; while three or more offences could result in 30 days suspension, a $3,000 fine and six demerit points.
How to Break Distracted Driving Habits
Make no mistake about it; distracted driving is a choice and you can choose to make safe decisions each and every day. Simply put, avoid activities that take your eyes, your hands, or your mind off of your driving. Here are some tips to curb temptation:
While our team will be there for your insurance needs should an accident occur, we would love to see automobile accidents from distracted driving significantly decrease altogether. We invite you to share your thoughts with us. Let’s talk.
About E&Y Insurance Agency and Tax Preparation Services
E&Y Insurance Agents are dedicated to giving our clients insurance products that provide quality protection and value pricing. Our goal is to establish a successful partnership with our clients, our staff members, and our insurance companies. Our success is measured by our clients choosing us because they believe in our ability to meet or exceed their expectations of price, service, and expertise. Call us now at 248.817.8071 to talk about your insurance needs! We are located at 888 W Big Beaver Rd #750.
