Driving course shows how dangerous distractions can be

HALIFAX – Distracted drivers are one of the leading causes of accidents in Nova Scotia, and a recent survey by Ford shows just how prevalent they are.

“Recently, Ford has undertaken a study that shows 90 per cent of student and parent drivers drive while distracted,” said Pat Lawrence, the sales manager of Steele Ford in Halifax.

On the heels of that survey, Ford set up a distracted driving course in the parking lot of the Halifax Forum. Participants were able to drive through the course — once without distractions, and then with distractions. Lawrence said the purpose is to promote safe driving habits with students and parents.

Mary-Beth Garson took part in the course, and said increasing numbers of young people are driving distracted, and it’s something she encounters on a daily basis.

“Most of the time when I’m in the car with my friends, they have a phone or something,” she said.

Police say they now look at distracted driving as a cause in every accident.

“The cell phone and texting thing is really getting out of hand and it’s becoming more and more dangerous to be on the road” said Sgt. David Reynolds of the Halifax Regional Police.

Police say distracted driving has grown exponentially, and accidents can happen at a moment’s notice.

“Distracted driving can take many forms,” said Reynolds. “It can be as simple as a mother or a father reaching from the drivers position to assist their child in the back seat.”

Garson, said she is planning to make some changes in the way she travels after taking part in this course.

“I’ll definitely put my phone away more, especially when I’m on the highway or something,” she said. “And I’ll start telling my friends the same, because it is distracting and you don’t realize how distracted you really are.”