The Insurance Bureau of Canada was in Grimsby Aug. 15 on its Drive to Survive Tour to teach residents in attendance about the dangers of distracted driving and to present the Grimsby FORT, Foundation of Resources for Teens, with a $5,000 grant.

In the parking lot of the Carnegie building, attendees could try out the tour's DUMB (Distractions Undermining Motorist Behaviour) car.

During their virtual drive, participants are required to drive while operating a cell phone, an mp3 player or the radio, or while doing a little personal grooming, eating a sack, having a drink or reading a road map.

Niagara West-Glanbrook MPP Tim Hudak, who was invited by the IBC to present the grant to the FORT, commended the program, saying it teaches the importance of keeping one's hands on the wheel and paying attention to the road.

After he was finished driving the DUMB car, he said he thought the device effectively displays how electronic gadgets can be a "tremendous distraction."

As for his position on cracking down on using cell phones or electronic devices while driving, he said, that's something he'll look at more closely if the Liberals table any legislation on the matter.

"We'll see what path the government takes. We'll see whatever the legislation looks like. I look forward to advice from safety groups and residents of West Niagara."

The MPP also said he would also like to examine the best practices of other provinces which have already implemented bans on using electronic devices while driving, such as Quebec and Nova Scotia.

Zach Budd, one of four student volunteers with the tour, said he got involved to help save a few lives over this summer.

He said the tour has opened his eyes about distracted driving and he hopes the tour will do the same for others.

"Especially for myself because I live in Toronto and I'm driving downtown all the time, I realize how important it is that people are safe," the 19-year-old said. "After doing the program I'll definitely pull over to answer my cell phone or just not answer it at all."

Angela Fazio, FORT's program coordinator, said she will continue to reinforce the message.

"We're always open to providing advice to our clients when they're looking to get their licenses."