Ontario, B.C. now fining drivers using handheld cell phones

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TORONTO, Ont. — Ontario police are now fully enforcing a law banning the use of handheld communications devices while driving.

 

Drivers caught using a handheld device while driving will be fined $155.

 

The law has been in place since Oct. 26, 2009 but so far enforcement has focused on education and police have issued warnings only. Under the law, drivers cannot talk, text, type, dial or e-mail using handheld cell phones or other handheld devices.

 

The law also prohibits the viewing of display screens unrelated to driving, including laptop computers and DVD players.

 

CB radios are not yet included in the ban, but eventually will be within three years.

In B.C., meanwhile, fines of $167 will be given to motorists found talking, texting or e-mailing using handheld devices.

 

“Police have been stopping drivers throughout January to give them warnings about talking on a cellphone, and people seem to be getting the message and changing their behaviour,” said Solicitor General Kash Heed. “But the grace period will soon be over and drivers who don’t keep their hands on the wheel and their eyes on the road will now pay the price.”

 

 

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