Starting July 1, drivers in Canada can't use handheld devices on the road. Yahoo!
Starting July 1, a new law is in effect across all of Canada. It brings strict changes for anyone who drives. The rule bans all handheld electronic devices while driving. This includes phones, tablets, gaming devices, and even GPS units—unless mounted and voice-controlled.
One Rule for Everyone
Before this, each province had its own version of distracted driving laws. That caused confusion for drivers. Now, the new nationwide rule will make it clear: no holding any electronic device while driving, no matter where you are in Canada.
What Devices Are Banned?
If you’re holding or using any of these while behind the wheel, you’ll be breaking the law:
- Smartphones
- Tablets
- Gaming devices
- GPS devices not mounted
Only hands-free or mounted, voice-activated use is allowed.
Big Penalties for Breaking the Law
Getting caught using a handheld device while driving will now come with tougher punishments. In Ontario, for example:
- First-time fines start at $615
- Repeat offenders can lose their license
- Drivers will also receive demerit points
Other provinces may vary in the exact fine amounts, but all will follow the new rule.
New Tech Rules for New Cars
Ontario has gone a step further. All new vehicles must now come with Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS). These include features like lane keeping, emergency braking, and warnings for distractions.
Why the Change?
The changes come after serious concern from road safety experts. The Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) reported 82 deaths last year caused by distracted driving. That number was higher than deaths due to drunk or speeding drivers.
Officials believe these new steps are needed to reduce such tragedies. They hope to save more lives and reduce crashes—not just in Ontario, but across the entire country.
Safer Roads for Everyone
The law targets both everyday drivers and commercial ones. It also includes young drivers, who are often at a higher risk due to phone use. The goal is simple: make roads safer for everyone—drivers, passengers, cyclists, and pedestrians.
With summer travel season here, enforcement will also increase. Police will be out watching for drivers breaking this law.
So, if you’re driving, keep your hands off your phone. Use a mount, connect through Bluetooth, or just wait until you park.
