October 26 – It's now the law - the use of hand-held cell phones and other wireless devices while driving is prohibited in Ontario.

The new distracted driving law makes it illegal for drivers to talk, text, type, dial or email using hand-held cell phones and other hand-held communications and entertainment devices.  Hands-free use of these devices will still be permitted.

Today marks the beginning of a three-month period that will focus on educating drivers about Ontario's new road rules for hand-held wireless communication and entertainment devices.  Following the education period, police will begin issuing tickets on February 1, 2010, with fines of up to $500.

Police, paramedics and firefighters, as well as some commercial drivers and public service workers may continue to use certain hand-held devices when performing their duties. All drivers may use hand-held devices to call 9-1-1. 

• Find out more about Ontario's new road rules for the use of wireless communication and electronic entertainment devices while driving, including exemptions.
• Read what people are saying about the new law.
• Review key research on the effects of driving while distracted.
• Read scenarios that show how drivers can make a few simple changes to comply with the new law.
• Download a copy of the Ontario government regulation that describes exemptions for commercial, emergency services and public service personnel.