A new law which comes into effect this Saturday is intended to improve highway safety on Prince Edward Island. As of January 23, it will be illegal to use hand-held, wireless, electronic devices while driving on the Island.
“I am extremely pleased that this government has recognized the dangers caused by using hand-held devices while driving and has enacted legislation to address it,” says Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure Renewal Ron MacKinley. “The research clearly shows that accident risk is much greater when drivers are making calls or texting. There is no doubt we will have safer highways as the driving public moves to comply with this new law.”
Devices covered by the ban include cell phones, smart-phones (blackberry, Iphone, etc.) 10-4 phones, GPS devices and lap top computers. The use of one-touch, hands-free devices is permitted as is the use of two-way radios. Emergency personnel including fire, EMS and police are exempt as are drivers who are calling 911. Drivers convicted of breaking the new law face fines ranging from $250 to $400 and three demerit points.
The Department has recently met with all municipal police forces and with RCMP officials about the new law. And while the law is in full effect as of January 23, the Department expects to see more warnings issued than actual charges during an initial adjustment period as is common with many new law introductions.
For more information, visit www.gov.pe.ca/cellphones.
QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS
Q. How does this new law benefit Islanders?
A. The Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure Renewal, along with the Government of Prince Edward Island, wants to make PEI roads and highways safer for all users. Research has shown that driving while using hand-held communication devices puts everyone at a higher risk of motor vehicle collisions which directly relates to increased injury and death.
Q. What is allowed or not allowed under this new law?
A. Allowed:
Hand-held devices can be used if the vehicle is lawfully parked on the shoulder of the road and out of traffic. The other option is to go hands-free.
Not Allowed:
You cannot use hand-held wireless communication devices while driving a vehicle including those capable of receiving or transmitting telephone communications, electronic data, email or text messages. This also includes GPS Units.
Q. What does hands-free mean?
A. Hands-free means you can add a tool to your cellular, smart phone or other communication device to allow you to use it with one touch. You can also use the Speaker option on your device. You will have to dial the number using verbal or one-touch commands. The intention is to ensure that you can safely use the communication device without distraction from driving.
Q. What are these hands-free tools and are they expensive?
A. You have several options. You can use an ear piece, a headset, a Blue Tooth or a through-vehicle sound system. Prices start at $30.
Q. What about 2-way radios?
A. The law does not apply to any communication device that is linked to a non-public short wave radio communication system, i.e. CB radio.
Q. What about my Global Positioning System (GPS)?
A. You can use your GPS system only if the driver is not typing or inputting information while driving.
Q. Does this law apply to all drivers?
A. Yes, everyone except emergency personnel in the course of their duties. If you operate an emergency vehicle, Ambulance, a Fire or Police Vehicle, this law does not apply to you in the execution of your job.
Q. Can I use a hand-held phone when I am stationary in traffic?
A. No, driving includes time when stopped at traffic lights or during other hold-ups.