Persistent distracted drivers frustrate police

As more people die in accidents caused by distracted drivers, police in Sudbury and throughout northeastern Ontario say they're not sure what it will take to stop people from texting while driving.

Sudbury police say there have been two fatalities directly linked to texting and driving in the past two years.

Constable John Coluzzi said there may be others, but police can't determine how much of a role distraction played after the fact.

In the entire northeast, the provincial police say six people died last year.

Sergeant Carolle Dionne said, so far this year, three people have died. She said she's not sure if increased fines — it currently sits at $155 — would help reduce distracted driving. The fact people are dying doesn't seem to be changing anyone's behavior, Dionne noted.

"[Often] the penalty … is the loss of a life," she said. "Is that high enough for people to get that message? We're still seeing fatalities."

Sudbury resident Ryan Mallette, who lost a good friend in an accident caused by a texting driver, said he’s unsure what will stop people from texting behind the wheel.

Mallette said the driver of an oncoming vehicle swerved into the oncoming lane, killing his friend and her passenger.

"People are going to keep dying and people are finally going to realize someday," he said. "It really disgusts me, actually."

Dionne said it’s difficult to catch drivers in the act.

"It's still tricky. As soon as they see a cruiser, they'll hide their [device]," she said. "You'll see a lot more when we're off-duty or in civilian clothing."