October 15, 2009
As of Oct. 26, hand-held devices banned in Ontario
The Ontario government’s Bill 118 will become law on Oct.26. When it does become official, it will be illegal to use a hand-held device while operating a motor vehicle.
Drivers who text, type, email, dial or chat using any hand-held device will face fines of up to $500 upon conviction. As well, if a GPS unit is not properly affixed to the dashboard this will also contravene the new law.
Police have the leeway to lay a careless driving charge under Bill 118. Careless driving carries a minimum penalty of six demerit points and a maximum $2,000 fine and up to five years in prison.
Following a three-month period that begins October 26, the province says that the focus will be on educating drivers. Police will begin issuing tickets on Feb. 1, 2010.
Drivers who text, type, email, dial or chat using any hand-held device will face fines of up to $500 upon conviction. As well, if a GPS unit is not properly affixed to the dashboard this will also contravene the new law.
Police have the leeway to lay a careless driving charge under Bill 118. Careless driving carries a minimum penalty of six demerit points and a maximum $2,000 fine and up to five years in prison.
Following a three-month period that begins October 26, the province says that the focus will be on educating drivers. Police will begin issuing tickets on Feb. 1, 2010.