Hands-Free Legislation in Ontario
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The hands-free while driving law will take effect in Ontario as of October 26th, 2009 with a grace period until February 2010. At that time fines will be handed out…You’ve been warned!!*
This October 2009, new laws are being introduced in Ontario that will affect how we use our cellphones while driving. The purpose is to prevent drivers from getting distracted by texting, twittering and good ol’fashion phone calling. Here is some pertinent info:
- Effective date - The legislation will be in effect from October 2009, but it is understood that there will be a consumer awareness and education period initially, where the police will be lenient about violations.
- Devices affected - Drivers cannot use handheld wireless communications devices while driving. This includes cell phones, BlackBerrys, iPods or other portable MP3 devices, PlayStation portables or Gameboys. Drivers also cannot view display screens on devices that are unrelated to driving such as a laptop or DVD player.
- Text messaging - Text messaging and emailing are not permitted while driving.
- Bluetooth devices - Using a hands-free wireless communications device, for example a Bluetooth headset, will be permitted.
- Answering calls - Pressing a button of a hand-held device that is secured in an accessible place to activate the hands-free mode for an incoming or outbound call is permitted under the legislation.
- Dialing - You may not use the key pad on your phone to dial a phone number. You can only press a button to accept (or end) a call, or to initiate a voice activated dialling feature.
- 911 Calls - All calls to 911 are permitted while driving. However, before placing a call it is advisable to stop safely at the side of the road.
- GPS devices - GPS devices that are mounted on a dashboard or windshield are permitted to be used. You are not permitted to use GPS if it requires you to hold the device in your hand. For example using Google maps while holding your Blackberry in your hand would not be permitted. You are also required to pull over to the side of the road to input addresses into your GPS, you cannot type while driving.
- Fines - Fines range from $60 to $500.
- Demerit Points - There are no demerit points for a violation, however, if the driver causes an accident or injury while driving while using an electronic device they could be charged with careless driving or dangerous driving. Both of these offences have associated demerit points.
- Other jurisdictions - Ontario will be the fourth Canadian province to have instituted such a ban, joining Quebec, Newfoundland, and Nova Scotia. Worldwide, 50 countries have already enacted similar legislation. In the U.S., hands-free legislation already exists in both California and New York.
Some Bluetooth headset products featured on our website:
Plantronics Voyager PRO with advanced noise-canceling and WindSmart technology
Jabra BT530 with Noise Blackout™
Contact Comfort Telecom Canada for information on Bluetooth headsets.
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