Ontario police warn drivers of cellphone rules change

On February 1, 2010 the rules will be changing for Ontario drivers when it comes to hand-held wireless communication devices or any hand-held electronic entertainment devices.

Only hands-free devices will be allowed under the new laws for motorists, states a press release from Guelph Police Department to Digital Journal. Ontario drivers who talk, text and drive will face a fine starting this Monday. Motorists who use a display screen unrelated to the driving task such as laptops or DVD players while driving will also face charges. Some devices will still be permitted in Ontario. The devices are as follows: • a cellphone with an earpiece or headset using voice dialing, or plugged into the vehicle's sound system • a global positioning system (GPS) device that is properly secured to the dashboard or another accessible place in the vehicle • a portable audio player that has been plugged into the vehicle's sound system. Drivers will be allowed to call 911 during emergency situations. Motorists can also pull off of the roadway in a safe location to make calls. Lawful parking is required for the latter and the car must remain stationary during the call. Devices that display a screen used for collision avoidance systems and Viewing a display screen of an instrument, gauge or system that provides information to the driver about the status of systems in the motor vehicle are not included in the ban. Emergency response personnel will be allowed to use hand-held wireless communications devices and view display screens in the normal performance of their duties.