The government of British Columbia has made it all official. New legislation is going into effect January 1st, 2010 that bans drivers from sending or reading text or email messages… Plus, making or taking phone calls will be prohibited, unless a hands-free device with one-touch dialing is used. Thumbs B.C. I think you’ve got this right!
If you’re caught by the coppers, you’ll receive a $167 fine (starting next February) and receive penalties against your license.
Trace Acres of the BCAA commented on the matter:
“You should get in the habit of turning off your cellphone or other handheld electronic devices before getting in the car, or leaving them in a briefcase or in the trunk where it is out of reach and won’t tempt you. Then, when you reach your destination take a minute to check for messages. Also, change your voice message to say you’re currently unavailable or driving, and will return the call when it is safe to do so.”
Amen.
This is just another sign of the times. Where I’m from in Manitoba, our government is in the middle of an ‘awareness’ campaign warning commuters of the dangers of cellphones and driving. It’s of course the first step towards an all-out ban of the devices while behind the wheel.
[MobileSyrup via NewsWire]