P.E.I. sets maximum distracted driving fine at $1,200

The fine for distracted driving in beautiful P.E.I. has dramatically increased and is now the highest in the country.

Back in 2010, the province banned use of handheld devices while driving, with fines originally between $250 to $500. Now those caught talking or texting will see the amount jump from $400 to $1,200. In addition, the number of demerit points for distracted driving has also jumped from three to five in the province.

In the recent months, other Canadian provinces have instituted stiffer distracted driving fines, including Ontario, Manitoba and Quebec.