The Ontario legislature has passed a new law that bans the use of hand-held devices while driving. Drivers will no longer be able to use hand-held cell phones and other hand-held electronic entertainment or communications devices. The ban covers activities such as texting, emailing, dialing, or talking. An exception will be made for use of hands-free devices and GPS devices (as long as they are secure to the dashboard). Emergency calls, such as calls to 911, will also not be affected.
When the law goes into effect later this year, drivers will face CA$500 fines. Drivers could also be charged under existing careless driving laws if they endanger others.
Ontario follows Newfoundland and Labrador, Quebec and Nova Scotia in enacting such a ban. More than 50 countries worldwide also have similar laws in place.