BC's New Distracted Driver legislation is now fully in effect.  That means you now face a $167 fine if caught using a handheld cellphone or electronic device while driving in BC.      

Please review all the information below to ensure you are fully complying with the new Distracted Driver Legislation.  Most importantly, compliance with the new rules will help reduce your risk of a motor vehicle accident. 

Effective February 1st, 2010, a driver talking on a hand-held phone or electronic device or violating any provision of the new legislation will be subject to a fine of $167. 

Drivers caught texting or emailing will be subject to the same fine and three penalty points.  Manual dialing of any cellphone device is considered texting under the legislation and will be charged as such.

Drivers subject to the Graduated Licensing Program (New Driver / Learner Drivers) are now fully banned from using any cellphone or electronic devices while driving, including hands-free.

Using An Electronic Device Includes: 

-Holding the device
   -Operating one of its functions (e.g. pressing buttons)
      -Talking on the device
         -Watching the device
 

Engaging in any one of the above constitutes a complete offence.

Electronic Devices Include: 

-Cell phones, Blackberry and other hand-held devices that have telephone capabilities and on which you can send text messages or emails.

   -IPods and other audio players

      -GPS Systems

         -Hand microphones

            -Televisions

               -Other hand-held electronic devices

Drivers in BC may only use electronic devices if they are: 

-Safely parked off the roadway.

   -Using hands-free technology (voice activated, or activated by a single touch)

      -Reporting an emergency to 911 (Police, Fire or Ambulance)

Please review the additional information below to ensure you understand the new rules.

Cellphones, Electronic Devices and Driving - What is the cost?

Distraction by cellphone or electronic devices while driving puts you at a significantly higher risk of collisions that can result in deaths, injuries, and property damage.  Police enforcement of the new legislation is aimed at avoiding those costs.  If you choose to ignore these important new rules of the road, you face the prospect of the following financial and driver penalty point costs.

Cellphones, Electronic Devices And Driving - What Can Be Used? What Can't? 

Police, fire and ambulance personnel who need to make calls in the performance of their duties are exempt from the legislation.