OTA opposed to ban on in-cab electronic communication devices

Avatar photo

TORONTO, Ont. — The Ontario Trucking Association is opposed to an outright ban on all electronic communication devices in moving vehicles, a plan that the OTA has learned is being considered by Ontario Transportation Minister Jim Bradley.

The OTA suggests that distracted drivers should be penalized, instead. The OTA has strong concerns about this issue, as an outright ban on the use of in-vehicle electronic devices in Ontario would not be feasible for the trucking industry.

“OTA’s board recently adopted the position that amending the Highway Traffic Act, so that a charge could be laid under for distracted driving is more practical and sensible, rather than an outright ban on the use of electronic communications devices,” the organization said in a statement.

“Under this new law, if an officer is able to verify that someone has caused an accident, or is seen to be driving erratically because of the use of an in-vehicle electronic device, this new charge could be laidbut simply using an electronic communications device would not be prohibited.”

The government’s response so far has been that no final decisions have been made on how best to address this issue and has offered an assurance that the OTA will be included in the Ministry’s consultations.

Avatar photo

Truck News is Canada's leading trucking newspaper - news and information for trucking companies, owner/operators, truck drivers and logistics professionals working in the Canadian trucking industry.


Have your say


This is a moderated forum. Comments will no longer be published unless they are accompanied by a first and last name and a verifiable email address. (Today's Trucking will not publish or share the email address.) Profane language and content deemed to be libelous, racist, or threatening in nature will not be published under any circumstances.

*