Legislative Changes for the Motor Vehicle Act

January 1, 2010 marks the start of a new, safer way to drive.  As of this date, all drivers in BC will be prohibited from using cell phones and other electronic devices to talk, text, navigate or play while driving (with a few exceptions).  Here is what is contained in this new law.

PROHIBITED ACTIONS AND DEVICES

• NO operating or holding hand-held cell phones or other electronic devices.
• NO sending or reading e-mails and/or texting.
• NO operating or holding hand-held music or portable gaming devices.
• NO manual programming or adjusting GPS systems while driving.

PERMITTED ACTIONS AND DEVICES

• Hands-free cell phones that are built in or securely fixed to the vehicle and used by pressing a single button – once only – in order to activate a hands-free device for incoming or outgoing calls.
• Pre-programmed and voice-activated GPS devices.
• Two-way radios for industry.
• Any of the above devices can be used if the vehicle is legally parked and not impeding traffic.
• Calling 9-1-1 to report an emergency.

GRADUATED LICENSE DRIVERS  (L and N Drivers)

In addition to the above restrictions and permitted actions, new drivers are PROHIBITED from using hands-free communications devices while driving.

EXEMPTIONS

Police, fire and ambulance personnel who may need to make calls in the performance of their duties.

Calling 9-1-1 in an emergency.

PENALTIES

The fine amount for disobeying this law will be $167.

Additionally, if you are caught texting or e-mailing, you will receive three penalty points on top of the fine.

Saanich Police will be actively promoting this new legislation in our schools, in our parking lots and on our roads.  The month of January has been set aside to educate drivers, with enforcement kicking in on February 1st.

For a detailed listing of prohibited and permitted activities, please see this site from the Office of the Superintendent of Motor Vehicles.