JXTC GENRE : DECEMBER 08 TEMPLATE

Clarington drivers who text and drive are being warned that on February 1, education ends and enforcement begins.

According to Durham Regional Police, they will be enforcing the new “distracted driver’s bill” effective February 1, 2010 and will stop letting drivers off with a warning and will start handing out tickets instead.

In an effort to make Ontario roads safer, the Ontario government passed Bill 118, commonly known as the "distracted driver’s bill". This new law makes it illegal to use a cell phone and other electronic devices while operating a motor vehicle on a highway in Ontario.

Tickets for those caught texting or otherwise using electronic devices while driving will result in a fine of $150.

Under the new law, you are prohibited from driving and using hand-held wireless communication devices such as cell phones and Blackberries and from using hand-held electronic entertainment devices such as iPods, Playstation portables and Nintendo DS games. You are also prohibited from texting and emailing, programming directions or changing information on GPS devices, or having display screens visible to the driver if they are unrelated to the driving (such as DVD players and laptop computers).

The new law provides exceptions for drivers to use hands-free communication devices with an earpiece; headset; speakerphone or Bluetooth. There is also an exception for calling 911 or if the driver has pulled off the roadway or stopped on the shoulder ensuring they are not impeding traffic.

According to many studies, distracted driving is one of the leading causes of collisions on North American roadways.