Distracted driving and the ``dooring'' of cyclists will carry heftier fines beginning today.
Penalties for distracted driving will include an increased set fine of 490 dollars with a maximum $1,000 fine, and three demerit points upon conviction.
Sarnia police Constable John Sottosanti says statistics now show that distracted driving, such as talking on your cell phone or texting, has surpassed drunk driving as the number one cause in collisions and roadway fatalities.
The fine for ``dooring'' cyclists increases to 365 dollars and three demerit points and, where possible, drivers must now leave a one-metre distance when passing cyclists.
Drivers must also now leave a safe passing distance for tow trucks stopped on the roadside to provide assistance, or face a fine of 490 dollars
