Effective July 1, drivers across Canada are facing tougher rules when it comes to distracted driving.
A new nation-wide law has banned the use of any handheld electronic devices while driving — including phones, tablets, gaming consoles and GPS units — unless they are mounted and voice-activated.
It is similar to a ban already in place in Ontario.
The law aims to close loopholes and create uniform rules from coast-to-coast.
Drivers caught breaking the law could face heavy fines, demerit points and even licence suspensions for repeat offences.
In Ontario, distracted driving laws got more harsh as of this month. Fines now start at $615, and new rules expand to cover modern tech and require all new cars to include advanced driver assistance systems.
OPP reported 82 deaths last year due to distracted driving.
Officials hope the changes will save lives and keep roads safer this summer here at home and across the country.
