Distracted Driving - Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: What about hands-free devices?
Q2: Can I use my handheld device when stopped at a traffic light?
Q3: Are there any exceptions to Ontario's distracted driving law?
Q1: What about hands-free devices?
You may use any device that you do not touch, hold or operate while driving, other than to turn it on or off. Actions such as dialing or scrolling through contacts are not allowed.
Device type
Can I use it?
A cell phone with headset, headset or Bluetooth device using voice-activated dialing.
Yes - only to activate or deactivate a 'hands-free' function, and only if the device is mounted or secured. Actions such as dialing or scrolling through contacts are not allowed.
A GPS screen
Yes - provided the GPS is mounted on the dashboard or windscreen. You must enter the required information before you start driving.
A portable media player plugged into the vehicle's audio system.
Yes - but you must activate the playlist before driving
In-vehicle display screens used for safety purposes.
Yes
Ignition interlock devices.
Yes
Q2: Can I use my handheld device when stopped at a stop light?
@dtptraffic Hello, is it allowed to listen navigation on Bluetooth headset while driving? If no then what is the fine value in such offence.
— Ajay Singh Sat Feb 22 03:41:36 +0000 2020
No. Except for a call to the police, fire department, or emergency medical services personnel, the operator of a motor vehicle must be pulled off the roadway and not obstruct traffic, or parked lawfully to use these portable devices.
Remark:
Stopping on the shoulder of a 400-series freeway is dangerous, and drivers are prohibited from leaving a designated 400-series freeway and parking for any reason other than an emergency. If it is not an emergency, drivers are advised to exit the highway at an interchange or proceed to the nearest service center.
It's important to remember that collisions don't just happen when a vehicle is in motion. . Drivers stopped at traffic lights and using a cell phone or smart phone (eg BlackBerry) often do not pay attention to the light cycle and frequently miss turn signals or green lights. They also pay no attention to the actions of other road users, including pedestrians and cyclists.
Q3: Are there exceptions to Ontario's distracted driving law?
While driving, you are not permitted to use portable communication and entertainment devices or view display screens unrelated to the driving task, with the following exceptions:
Call 9-1-1 in an emergency
When the driver is legally parked or has left the roadway safely and is not obstructing traffic.
Remark:
Stopping on the shoulder of a 400-series highway is dangerous and drivers are prohibited from leaving a designated 400-series highway and parking for any reason other than an emergency. If it is not an emergency, drivers are advised to exit the highway at an interchange or proceed to the nearest service center.
Commercial and transit drivers, as well as utility workers who are engaged in the performance of their duties, are able to view the display screens of mobile data terminals and tracking and tracing devices. logistics distribution. Specified commercial, transit (including bus), and government service drivers, and licensed amateur radio operators were granted an exemption for the portable use of two-way radios.
Other devices not included in the ban:
Display of a display screen used for collision avoidance systems
Display of a display screen of an instrument, gauge or system that provides information about the conditions, use and immediate surroundings of the vehicle or that provides traffic or weather information
Ignition lock
Car audio screens that display still images
Devices like handheld microphones and portable radios (walkie-talkies) that do not have a microphone connected to a separate receiver cannot be used as a handheld device, but can be used hands-free. Drivers can use a lapel button or press a button on the device to transmit or receive voice communication if the handheld microphone or walkie-talkie is mounted or secured and not held while driving.
Viewing display screens from a mobile data terminal is permitted for commercial purposes. These devices provide operational information from a dispatch or control center and are essential to business operations, including licensed taxi and limousine services, couriers, tow trucks and roadside assistance services. Many public services, including public transport, also depend on these devices.