Distracted Driving Legislation (Hands Free)

The Niagara Regional Police Service would like to remind motorists that effective October 26th 2009, it will be illegal for Ontario drivers to use any handheld communication and entertainment devices. 

As of this date and up to February 1, 2010, there will be a 3-month education period where police will not issue Provincial Offences Notices (tickets) however motorists should be aware that all police officers will maintain discretion to lay charges by way of summons under this new law where it is appropriate to do so. 

Police continue to have the ability to lay charges, where warranted, of Careless Driving or other offences under the Highway Traffic Act or Criminal Code driving offences for situations where drivers are using electronic devices. This new legislation will enhance traffic safety by creating a specific offence for driving behaviour which is known to distract drivers from driving safely. 

Distracted drivers are a safety risk to themselves and others. The Niagara Regional Police Service is committed to ensuring the safety of all motorists in Niagara.

• Ministry of Transportation Newsroom: Ban on Hand-Held Devices Starts in October
• Legislative Assembly of Ontario: Bill 118, Countering Distracted Driving and Promoting Green Transportation Act, 2009
   
• Bill 118:  An Act to amend the Highway Traffic Act to prohibit the use of devices with display screens and hand-held communication and entertainment devices and to amend the Public Vehicles Act with respect to car pool vehicles