Auto123.com - Helping you drive happy

Using a cell phone while driving: the warning period is over!

|
Obtain the best financial rate for your car loan at Automobile En DirectTecnic
Khatir Soltani
Starting today, July 1, those who manipulate a cell phone while driving will be hit with a ticket. As announced last December, the government of Quebec will prohibit the use of hand-held phones behind the wheel.

To allow drivers to adjust to the new law, the Société de l'assurance automobile du Québec (SAAQ) granted a three-month "buffer" period. From April 1 to June 30, police authorities were told to only give warnings to delinquent drivers.


Now, they will follow a zero-tolerance policy. Guilty drivers will receive a fine of $115 and three demerit points.

If you want to keep talking on your cell phone while driving, you'll have to rely on a hands-free device. Of course, this alternative isn't strongly recommended by the SAAQ, which claims that the risk of getting into an accident is just as high because the driver is not entirely focused on the road.
photo:Jupiter images
Khatir Soltani
Khatir Soltani
Automotive expert
  • Over 8 years experience as a car reviewer
  • Over 50 test drives in the last year
  • Involved in discussions with virtually every auto manufacturer in Canada