$500 Cell Phone Fine

(KINCARDINE, ON.) – On October 26th, 2009, the Countering Distracted Driving and Promoting Green Transportation Act becomes law in Ontario. As of October 26th, 2009 it will be illegal in Ontario for drivers to use any electronic devices that can cause driver distraction because distracted drivers are a significant threat to public safety on the roadway.

Devices that will be allowed after October 26th, 2009:

o GPS navigation device
o Hand held communication device IF HANDS FREE SET IS USED
o Vehicle instrument gauges and information systems
o Collision avoidance systems
o Transportation tracking systems

Between October 26th, 2009 and February 1st, 2010, there will be an educational period for this new legislation. Police officers will be able to summons a driver to court for contravening this law, but the roadside fine won’t be available until February 1, 2010. The Distracted Driving legislation allows for fines of up to $500.00.

After October 26th, 2009, for all drivers using a cell phone without a hands free set:

o Vehicle must be off the roadway or lawfully parked on the roadway; and
o Vehicle must NOT be in motion; and
o Vehicle must NOT impede traffic.

Anyone having information that can assist Police with investigations is asked to call South Bruce OPP at 519-396-3341 (Kincardine), 519-881-3130 (Walkerton) or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222 -TIPS (8477). OPP Dispatch – 1-888-310-1122

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