Latest News

Winnipeg Free Press - ONLINE EDITION

Enforcement begins July 15 on cell phone ban for drivers

By: Staff Writer

Posted: 06/17/2010 2:51 PM | Comments: 0 (including replies) | Last Modified: 06/17/2010 3:56 PM | Updates

WINNIPEG - Drivers caught by police using a hand-held cellphone or texting someone face a $191 fine as of July 15, the province said today.

Transportation Minister Steve Ashton said Thursday police will use their discretion how they enforce the new law and when they hand out a ticket.

"Let me make it very clear," Ashton said. "As of July 15 you will have three choices. If you want to conduct a call on a cellphone or text you can either pull over, use hands-free or risk getting a ticket."

The new ban brings Manitoba into step with other provinces, states and countries that have similar laws against people using hand-held devices in traffic. Use of these devices while driving has skyrocketed in recent years with the spread of wireless technology. At the same time experts say road crashes have gone up, too.

The ban is supported by CAA Manitoba and Manitoba Public Insurance. CAA Manitoba president Mike Mager said for the ban to improve road safety there has to be consistent police enforcement.

A city police spokesman said police are still formalizing how and when enforcement will start. An RCMP spokesperson said Mounties will likely start enforcing it July 15.

"The public was expecting it," Sgt. Line Karpish said, referring to extensive media coverage. "They ought to be ready for it July 15."

Ashton said there will be a public education campaign that the ban is coming into force.

He also said he expects Manitobans to respect the law in the same way they respected new laws that restricted smoking in public places and mandatory seatbelt laws.

"The goal of this is to get people safer on the road," Ashton said.

The legislation allows the use of cellphones while driving to make telephone calls, provided they are equipped as hands-free devices and used in a hands-free manner. The law also allows use of a hand-held cellphone to call the police, fire or ambulance service in an emergency.

History

Updated on Thursday, June 17, 2010 at 3:56 PM CDT: Adds quotes, more information.

(You must be logged in to post your reaction)

Your reaction?

More Latest News

Undock

You can comment on most stories on winnipegfreepress.com. You can also agree or disagree with other comments. All you need to do is register and/or login and you can join the conversation and give your feedback.

The Winnipeg Free Press does not necessarily endorse any of the views posted. By submitting your comment, you agree to our Terms and Conditions. These terms were revised effective April 16, 2010; View the changes. New to commenting? Check out our Frequently Asked Questions.