Ride-share driver stopped for watching YouTube while transporting passenger on Ottawa’s Highway 417

Ontario Provincial Police say an officer stopped a ride-share driver watching a YouTube video Tuesday night in Ottawa. (OPP/X)

A ride-share driver is facing a $615 fine after being caught watching YouTube while transporting a passenger in Ottawa.

Ontario Provincial Police say an officer observed a driver watching a video on their cellphone while driving on Highway 417 Tuesday night.

“The fare likely won’t cover the $615 ticket,” the OPP said on X, noting the fine for distracted driving is $615.

“It will also cost the driver three demerit points and a three-day driving suspension upon conviction.”

Under Ontario’s Highway Traffic Act, distracted driving includes viewing “display screens unrelated to driving, such as watching a video.”

“You are allowed to use hands-free wireless communications devices with an earpiece, lapel button or Bluetooth,” the Ontario government’s website says. “You can view GPS display screens as long as they are built into your vehicle’s dashboard or securely mounted on the dashboard.”