Posted on: 16-09-09 10:45:14
Ontario's Bill 118, an amendment to the Highway Traffic Act is now in effect and bans drivers from using handheld devices with display screens while operating a vehicle on the road.Here is a summary of the new rules:
Holding or using a wireless communication device (a cell phone) or a portable electronic entertainment device (iPod) while driving is prohibited.
Commercial GPS units along with similar dashboard-mounted devices that provide gauges and displays relating to logistical or navigation uses are permitted.
Using a cell phone or wireless communication device in hands-free mode, as long as you're not holding it during use, is permitted.
Using any device while pulled-over or parked in a way that you are not disrupting traffic, is permitted.
The systems used by Ambulances, Fire Departments, and Law Enforcement are exempt.
The ban is in effect as of September 1, 2009 and will carry a fine of $500. Demerit points will not be included but depending upon the violation, police will have the option to also use existing careless driving laws for additional penalties.
This bill has been passed for the safety and protection of all drivers on the road
http://www.ontla.on.ca/web/bills/bills_detail.do?locale=en&BillID=2099
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A Proud Indian Canadian
Thanks GG for sharing the info.
IMO, the distraction is the same while talking on a cell phone - with or without the hands free device. Looks like the Blue tooth lobby in full force.
Anyways, need to careful - I wasnt aware it became effective sept 1. Are we allowed to pull over on the 401 shoulder to answer an important phone call?
Hiren
Quote:
Originally posted by hchheda
Thanks GG for sharing the info.
IMO, the distraction is the same while talking on a cell phone - with or without the hands free device. Looks like the Blue tooth lobby in full force.
Hiren
I fully support this bill. It is about time. I think Quebec is looking into a complete cellphone use ban while driving i.e. no bluetooth/handsfree devices
I think the all the cellphone manufacturer supply blue tooth device. I doubt there might be some ulterior motive. And even if there is some motive, I think benefits outweighs disadvantages
Even though the level of distraction may be same, the bluetooth users will atleast have both the hands on steering wheel and not block the lanes on 401 with slow driving.
Worse, I had a desi lady blocking the drive-thru ATM. She was not using the machine, she was just chatting on her cellphone. I had to honk at her. Talk about civic manners......
GG, Could you provide a link to the source.
You're the 2nd person who said that it's effective Sep 1, 2009 (my daughter got the same email at work, but without a link)
If this bill would have been effective, it would have been all over the newspapers last week. According to this site http://www.canadadrivesafe.ca/index.php?act=viewDoc&docId=5 it becomes effective Oct 28, 2009
According to this link, someone wrote an email to the Sponsor of the Bill MPP James Bradley, and this is what he replied. Here is the link http://www.redflagdeals.com/forums/showthread.php?p=9418174:
From: Bradley_James-MPP (jbradley.mpp@liberal.ola.org)
Sent: September 3, 2009 2:10:06 PM
The final details of the Bill are still being completed. As of right now, it is projected that the bill take effect sometime in the fall.
I appologize for the vagueness, as details are still being finalized.
Take care,
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Sent: September 3, 2009 1:31 PM
To: Bradley_James-MPP
Subject: Bill 118
Hello,
I was wondering if it was possible to confirm the effective date of Bill 118? Also, the associated fine? (someone had mentioned it was C$500 for the first offense).
Thank you,
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EDIT: Link to the Ministry of Transportation website stating that the Effective date of September 1, 2009 is incorrect http://www.mto.gov.on.ca/english/safety/distractions.shtml
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SS
Reiki Grand Master
Quote:The distraction comes from paying attention to the conversation and not from having only one hand on the wheel (unless you're driving is hazardous conditions like snow or ice).
Originally posted by meghal
I fully support this bill. It is about time. I think Quebec is looking into a complete cellphone use ban while driving i.e. no bluetooth/handsfree devices
Even though the level of distraction may be same, the bluetooth users will atleast have both the hands on steering wheel and not block the lanes on 401 with slow driving.
I agree with hchheda that only a complete ban on all cell phone use will help matters.
However, it's a grey area.
What about conversation with a passenger?
It's equally distracting as a cell phone conversation.
GPS usage is distracting too, regardless of whether you're holding it or reaching across to your dashboard and playing with it.
And what do you do with those hundreds of cases where the problem is between the seat and the wheel i.e. the driver himself/herself?
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"Mah deah, there is much more money to be made in the destruction of civilization than in building it up."
-- Rhett Butler in "Gone with the Wind"
Quote:
Originally posted by pratickm
However, it's a grey area.
What about conversation with a passenger?
It's equally distracting as a cell phone conversation.
According to the MTO website -
There are a number of potential driver distractions and these may include:
technology devices such as cell phones, laptops and hand-held organizers;
reading maps or other material;
grooming activities;
eating or drinking;
note taking;
conversing with passengers;
tending to children or pets; and
adjusting in-vehicle controls (radio, climate control and CD player)
Careless driving charges can be laid in each of the above cases with a fine of upto $1000
But do they actually enforce it. I feel after Bill 118 becomes a law they may become more strict on the other distractions.
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SS
Reiki Grand Master
Quote:
Originally posted by meghal
Quote:
Originally posted by hchheda
I think the all the cellphone manufacturer supply blue tooth device. I doubt there might be some ulterior motive.
AFAIK, most cell phones are Blue tooth ready - but you need to buy a compatible head set or communicating device to use the feature.
Few years from now, I anticipate a new driving license which will test you for driving under these distractions and certify your ability to operate the vehicle safely. I heard of one in Europe where they test your driving skill under the influence of alcohol and if you pass the Grade, you are allowed to 'drink n drive'..legally.
Anyways, time to get a new blue tooth headset for myself.
Hiren
