OPP launch crackdown on distracted drivers

People using their cellphones while driving will find themselves under the microscope this week as the Ontario Provincial Police launches its annual distracted driving campaign.

Distracted driving was a factor in 69 deaths on the road last year, according to traffic statistics from the OPP.

• Distracted driving remains a killer on Ontario roads: OPP

That figure compares to 61 speed-related deaths, 51 seatbelt-related deaths and 45 alcohol-related deaths, police said.

"If you are texting, talking on your cellphone or pre-occupied with other activities while behind the wheel, you are not driving safely," said OPP commissioner Vince Hawkes. "It does not suffice to keep your eyes on the road. Driving involves sharing space with drivers, their passengers, motorcyclists, cyclists and pedestrians and it is impossible to do so safely unless your eyes and mind are solely focused on driving."