Motorists charged for using cellphones, despite grace period

The OPP have laid about 50 charges in the past two months under Ontario's new law against driving while using a cellphone, despite a grace period before the ban comes into full force on Feb. 1.

While the grace period is designed to get drivers used to the idea that they can't drive and talk on their cellphones, OPP Sgt. Pierre Chamberland said his force laid charges in cases where motorists were being reckless.

In addition, police have issued more than 2,400 warnings across the province.

"People should be advised that they can be charged under this legislation, even though we are still in an educational time frame right now under the law," warned Chamberland.

Ontario drivers can be fined as much as $500 for using hand-held devices to talk, text or email while behind the wheel, or using portable video games or DVD players.

There are no demerit points attached to the offence, but drivers who place others at risk by using one of the banned devices can also be charged under the existing careless driving laws.

They could face fines of up to $1,000, six demerit points, a driver's licence suspension and even jail time.

The provincial Ministry of Transportation says the ban is needed because driver distraction is a factor in 20 per cent of all accidents.

In Ottawa, where city police have issued more than 200 warnings, a police spokesman said motorists have not changed their behaviour.

"I noticed a decrease initially," said Sgt. Marc Benson. "But since then, people seem to be picking up their cellphones and talking while driving again."