Ontario's Ministry of Transportation will review the inclusion of two-way radios in Ontario's ban on the use of handheld technologies while driving, before the three-year exemption on their use expires.


As part of Bill 118, which went into effect on Feb. 1, 2010, two-way radios, including CB radios, were subject to a three-year phase out in order to allow time for appropriate hands-free technologies to be developed. In discussions with the Ontario Trucking Association, the Ministry had previously indicated that should no suitable technology be readily available to replace the two-way radios, there might be an extension of the phase out period until an appropriate technology becomes available.

"We are extremely pleased with MTO's receptiveness to reviewing this aspect of the regulation," said David Bradley, OTA president. "OTA agrees with the principle of the regulation to improve highway safety, but we need to ensure its application does not negatively interfere with trucking operations and communication."

For more information on Ontario's restriction on the use of handheld devices while driving, visit www.ontruck.org.