Police chief praises new cellphone law
Jamie Graham: 'There is evidence that ... hands-free is still an issue.'
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Updated: October 22, 2009 2:08 PM
Victoria's top cop says he's "thrilled" with new legislation to ban cellphones use while driving a motor vehicle.
But police Chief Jamie Graham still doesn't think a new law goes far enough in avoiding vehicle collisions or even deaths on Victoria roads.
Legislation from the Solicitor General's office banning drivers from touching electronic devices while driving, except for hands-free devices, will be enforced beginning Feb. 1, resulting in a $167 ticket.
"There is evidence that ... hands-free is still an issue," Graham said. "I was seeking a total ban, but in this day and age, I'm more than pleased with (the hands-free only legislation)."
Graham said Victoria police would wait to see the effectiveness of the ban before pushing for a total ban of all communications devices in moving vehicles.
In addition to the ticket, cellphone texting will earn drivers three penalty points on their licence.
Drivers in the graduated licensing program will also get three points plus the fine for any violation of the new mobile phone legislation.
The law also prohibits operation of hand-held game machines and iPods or other MP3 music players while driving. Manually adjusting or programming GPS navigation devices will also be prohibited.
Only one-touch functions will be allowed without pulling over to park.
The new law makes B.C. the fifth province in Canada to ban cell phones while driving after Quebec, Ontario, Nova Scotia and Newfoundland.
ecardone@vicnews.com
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