October 15, 2009
The Ontario government’s Bill 118 will become law on Oct.26. When it does become official, it will be illegal to use a hand-held device while operating a motor vehicle.

Drivers who text, type, email, dial or chat using any hand-held device will face fines of up to $500 upon conviction. As well, if a GPS unit is not properly affixed to the dashboard this will also contravene the new law.

Police have the leeway to lay a careless driving charge under Bill 118. Careless driving carries a minimum penalty of six demerit points and a maximum $2,000 fine and up to five years in prison.

Following a three-month period that begins October 26, the province says that the focus will be on educating drivers. Police will begin issuing tickets on Feb. 1, 2010.