As a result of the serious consequences out on our roads due to Cell Phone use behind the wheel, the govt. is showing they mean business with changes to Section 78.1(1) of the Highway Traffic Act (H.T.A.), inc. licence suspensions for various periods of time depending on your number of convictions. This means insurance companies will now be able to raise your rates for not only having this conviction but also for having the suspension on your record as well. Please see the revisions to the penalty section of this charge below and invest in a hands-free device for your vehicle:
Penalty
(6.1) Every person who contravenes this section is guilty of an offence and on conviction is liable,
(a) for a first offence, to a fine of not less than $500 and not more than $1,000;
(b) for a first subsequent offence, to a fine of not less than $500 and not more than $2,000; and
(c) for a second subsequent or an additional subsequent offence, to a fine of not less than $500 and not more than $3,000. 2017, c. 26, Sched. 4, s. 16.
Same
(6.2) If a person is convicted of an offence under this section, the Registrar shall suspend his or her driver’s licence,
(a) for a first offence, for three days;
(b) for a first subsequent offence, for seven days; and
(c) for a second subsequent or an additional subsequent offence, for 30 days. 2017, c. 26, Sched. 4, s. 16.
Same
(6.3) An offence under this section committed more than five years after a previous conviction for an offence under this section is not a subsequent offence for the purposes of subsection (6.1) or (6.2). 2017, c. 26, Sched. 4, s. 16.