In two weeks time, (Oct 1, 2009), Bill 118 (which became law) which prohibits viewing of electronic handheld devices, while driving, will be enforced. Devices include, cell phones; smartphones such as Blackberries; PDA's; IPods or other MP3 players; DVD Players; laptop computers; ebook readers; GPS units not affixed to the dashboard0; CB Radios; Ham Radios and portable games.

If you are operating a motor vehicle and are witnessed by a police officer using any of the above devices, i.e. viewing, texting or verbally communicating on a cell phone without a headset , you will receive a ticket worth $500.00.

If the officer considers such use of the device as careless driving, the consequences will include 6 demerit points; $2000 fine; insurance increase or cancellation; driver's licence suspension and possible incarceration.

Exemptions:
-Calling "911" as the result of an emergency
-Using the device while pulled over safely to the side of the road and properly parked.
-Police, Firefighters and Paramedics Operating an emergency vehicle as defined by the Highway traffic act.

How to Prepare:
1. Program your Cell Phone/ Blackberry for speed dialing of frequently used numbers.
Cell phone users, please consult your manual as the process for setting up speed dialing are model dependent.
For Blackberries users, most of the alphanumeric keys can be assigned. Please note that "1" is usually preassigned for accessing voice mail.

To program speed dialing on the Blackberry, perform the following...
- Select a key and hold it in for approximately one second.
- Select "Yes" to assign a speed dial
- Select the address of the contact to be added and confirm the number is to be assigned to that key. ( Note: Adding "1" to the front of all contact numbers will allow both local and long distance calling. You will not, however, be prompted that you are calling long distance.)

2. Dig out the headset that came with your unit and plug it in. A pilot study is underway to test bluetooth devices for personal and in-car use. The results of the study will be communicated upon completion. Please note that presently, corporate wireless will not be supporting bluetooth devices, but encourages the use of the wired headsets instead.

Safe Driving...
Albert

Please download the full pdf file here.