| An SUV driver in Ottawa who was caught on camera using her cellphone while driving and then attempting to cut off a motorcyclist is now facing charges. The Ottawa Police Service says the woman has been charged with careless driving, distracted driving, and failure to notify change of address. The charges stem from an incident last Friday, which motorcyclist Erik Hanna recorded on this helmet cam. Hanna's video shows the woman texting behind the wheel and ignoring him when he taps on her window. Hanna said she failed to advance – twice – when the traffic light changed. Eventually, Hanna pulled ahead and continued on his way. But moments later, the same SUV came up dangerously close beside him and pulled into his lane, coming within inches of hitting his bike. |
 | They later exchanged words at another intersection, with the woman demanding of Hanna: “Don’t you have anything better to do?” It was reported on August 30th that the number of road deaths from distracted driving in Ontario this year is set to double that of drunk driving, according to Police. Ontario recently increased the fine for distracted driving to between $490 and $1,000. Those convicted also lose three demerit points. Distracted driving includes “using your phone to talk, text, check maps or choose a playlist while you’re behind the wheel.” |  The careless driving charge carries a $490 fine and six demerit points. The distracted driving charge for texting is another $490 and three demerit points. |
