One of my pet peeves is how rampant dialling/talking/texting and driving still is in Ontario, despite it being against the law. 

It continues to amaze me every day the number of people I see who are talking or texting while driving.  Is there no respect for the law (and people’s lives)?  Do drivers not fear being caught and fined?  Are there really consequences to deter drivers? 

Take that one step further to Toronto’s Mayor Rob Ford who was recently “caught” (and subsequently admitted to it) using his mobile phone while driving.  Aren’t people in positions of authority and power – especially in the jurisdiction where a given law is in effect – supposed to set an example and follow that law?!?!? 

I guess it’s no wonder we still have rampant offenders if even our Mayor doesn’t see it fit to abide by the law?!?!? 

I, for one, think Mayor Ford should have offered to pay the fine, regardless of whether he was “caught” by a citizen or the police – if only to set an example to the citizens of his city, and take accountability for his unlawful actions.   That might have helped the cause of having people take the law more seriously – and abide by it. 

Somehow we need to get back to instilling respect, fear and consequences, and then maybe this law has a chance.  I sure hope so, because safety is at stake here – and that includes people’s lives.  How long will it take before attitudes and habits change, and we have a law that is truly obeyed – for all of our sakes?

What do you think?