While the Making Ontario Roads Safer Act was unanimously passed in June, the penalties went into effect on Sept. 1.
Here’s what divers need to know:
Distracted driving
According to the Ministry of Transportation Ontario includes:
– Using of hand-held wireless communication devices like cell phones, iPhones or BlackBerrys;
– Texting, dialing or emailing;
– Using hand-held electronic entertainment devices, like iPods;
– Viewing display screens unrelated to driving on devices like laptops, tablets and DVD players; or
– Programing a GPS device, other than by voice commands.
For these offenses a fine of $490 to a maximum of $1000, three demerit points, and a minimum 30 day suspension could be issued.
Passing cyclists
Drivers must leave one meter when passing a cyclist or they could face a $110 fine ($180 in a community safety zone) and two demerit points.
Dooring cyclists
Drivers who hit cyclists when opening their doors could face a $365 fine and three demerit points.
Slow down move over
In addition to the existing law to move over one lane for emergency vehicles stopped at the side of the road, the law now includes tow trucks who are stopped roadside to assist and the fine is $490.
Improper lighting on a bicycle
Half hour before sunset until half hour after sunrise, bicycles must have a white or amber light on the front and a red light or reflector on the back.
If these are not present cyclists could face a $110 fine.
For a list of all the changes visit http://News.ontario.ca/mto/en/2015/08/new-rules-of-the-road-effective-september-1-2015.html
