Police have been hammering home the message — don’t drive while using a cellphone.

In 2016, OPP reported at least 65 fatal collisions caused by a distracted driver. Police have also reported that distracted driving is now the number one cause of driving-related deaths in Ontario, more than drunk driving.

Stiffer distracted driving penalties took effect on Jan. 1, 2019. These penalties include fine increases up to $1,000, three demerit points for a first offence and a three-day licence suspension. The penalties rise for subsequent convictions.

But what exactly are the rules in Ontario surrounding distracted driving?

Here’s what you need to know.

Can I use hand-held devices while driving?

You can use any device that you do not touch, hold or manipulate while driving, other than to activate or deactivate it. Actions like dialing or scrolling through contacts are not allowed.

You can use:

A cellphone with an earpiece, headset or Bluetooth device using voice-activated dialing only to activate or deactivate the “hands-free function” and only if the device is mounted or secured. Actions like dialing or scrolling through contacts are not allowed.

A GPS screen is permitted provided the screen is mounted on the dashboard or windshield, but you must put in the required information before you start driving.

A portable media player connected to the vehicle’s sound system is allowed, but you must activate the playlist before driving.

Display screens built into the vehicle and used for safety reasons and ignition interlock devices are permitted.

Can I use a device when I’m stopped at a traffic light?

No. With the exception of a call to police, fire department or emergency medical services, a driver must be pulled off the roadway and not impeding traffic to use a device.

Note: It is dangerous to stop on the shoulder of a 400-series highway and drivers are prohibited from pulling off a designated 400-series highway and parking for a reason other than an emergency. If the situation is not an emergency, drivers are advised to exit the freeway at an interchange or pull into the nearest service centre.

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Are there any exemptions to Ontario’s distracted driving laws?

When driving, you are not permitted to use hand-held communication, entertainment devices or view display screens unrelated to driving except when calling 911 in an emergency situation and when the driver is lawfully parked or has safely pulled off the roadway and is not impeding traffic.