Reminder on Distracted Driving Law

Bill 16, the Traffic Safety (Distracted Driving) law enforcement to begin September 1st, 2011

This new law restricts drivers from holding or using hand-held / portable communication / entertainment devices such as cell phones, laptops or MP3 players while driving. Drivers are also restricted from reading, writing or attending to personal hygiene or grooming while driving.

The fine for the distracted driving offence is $172 with no demerit points. Drivers engaged in any of the identified activities can be charged under this new law.

A distracted driver could also face additional charges if they commit other violations such as running a stop sign or making an unsafe lane change.

Tips to avoid distracted driving:

• Preset your climate control and your radio prior to driving.
• Put all reading material in your trunk.
• Allow plenty of travel time.
• Have calls go to voice mail.
• Plan for safe locations to stop (for example, rest stops or commuter lots) to make and receive calls.
• If you're using a GPS device, pre-program your route prior to your trip.