Thankfully from that date up until February 1, 2010, there will be a three-month education period where police will not issue tickets. However, motorists should be aware that OPP officers will maintain discretion to lay charges by way of summons under this new law where it is appropriate to do so.

And of course Police continue to have the ability to lay charges of careless driving or other offences under the Highway Traffic Act or Criminal Code, where warranted, for situations where drivers are using electronic devices.

After February 1, drivers could be fined up to $500 if they’re caught using their hand-held cellphones or BlackBerrys to talk, email or send text messages while driving.