Peel - Peel Regional Police would like to remind the public that the legislation regarding the "hands-free" law is now in full effect. 

On October 26, 2009, the Countering Distracted Driving and Promoting Green Transportation Act became law. This legislation created new offences regarding the use of wireless communications, entertainment and global positioning system (G.P.S.) devices while operating a motor vehicle. During a three-month "education period", it was recommended to police officers in Ontario that they use their discretion on whether or not to lay charges under the new legislation. This grace period allowed motorists to obtain "hands-free" technology and familiarize themselves with the new law. 

On February 1, 2010, the law's set fine came into force. As of this date, the fine for violating the "hands-free" legislation is $155.00.

It should be noted that during the "education period", officers were still able to charge motorists. From October 26, 2009, to January 31, 2010, a total of 15 drivers in Peel Region, were charged by way of summons. 

Motorists are reminded that:

• Cellular telephone calls can only be made with the use of an ear-piece or vehicles equipped with Bluetooth technology. Voice dialling must also be utilized.  
• The traditional use of cellular telephones by drivers is still permitted - to contact emergency services (9-1-1). 
• Emailing, text messaging or dialling a cellular telephone while operating a motor vehicle, unless legally parked, is strictly prohibited.
• It is an offence to hold or use portable music players while operating a motor vehicle. 
• Global positioning system (G.P.S.) devices may only be used in a "hands-free" mode. This does not preclude a driver from having the screen visible to them for the purposes of getting to a destination. However, unless legally parked, accessing and using touch-screen G.P.S. devices while operating a motor vehicle is prohibited. 
• Drivers are prohibited from having visible to them any display screens of devices unrelated to the operation of the motor vehicle.