Police are again warning that no person shall drive a motor vehicle on a highway while holding or using a hand-held wireless communication device or other device that is capable of receiving, transmitting telephone communication, electronic data, mail or text messages.
This means the driver of a motor vehicle cannot talk, text, read or listen to messages while holding the device in his/her hand.
The device must be secured to the car by some means or wireless technology used. GPS units or entertainment devices such as an iPod must also be securely mounted.
Once mounted and properly secured all devices may be used, however, no programming of the device is allowed. You cannot answer your phone and then pull over.
You can use your device when:
– the motor vehicle is off the roadway or is lawfully parked on the roadway (this does not mean that you are stopped at the traffic lights or stop sign or in heavy traffic);
– the motor vehicle is not in motion; and
– the motor vehicle is not impeding traffic (ie. – you pull off the road and stop on the soft shoulder).
The set fines for offences are $225 plus victim surcharge and court costs.
Effective March 18, the total payable amount is $280 for each of the following offences under the Highway Traffic Act of Ontario
– driving a motor vehicle with a display screen visible to driver; and
– driving a motor vehicle while using a hand-held communication device.
