Big changes have come into effect for drivers nationwide in Canada, as a ban on the use of handheld electronic devices while driving is now in place across the country as of July 1. The law bans use of phones, tablets, gaming devices or some GPS units unless they are in a bracket and activated through voice command.
This action will close loopholes and bring consistency to the laws governing distracted driving from coast to coast. Penalties are stiff —fines from $615, demerit points and potential licence suspensions for repeat offenders.
Ontario has stepped it up even further with the inclusion of Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) in all new cars. Such a trend is disconcerting: The OPP determined there were 82 deaths last year related to distracted driving.
Officials say their new rules are a matter of saving lives, and of making roads safer across the country. And as Canadians hit the road the summer, drivers are being reminded to keep their cellphones hands-free and take their minds off everything except driving.
Stay safe, Canada.
