Drivers in British Columbia and Saskatchewan are no longer allowed to use hand-held cell phones while driving.

Both provinces enacted new laws — effective January 1, 2010 — that sharply restrict drivers’ use of cell phones and other electronic communications devices.

According to the British Columbia Automobile Association (BCAA), B.C.’s new law includes the following provisions:

• Drivers cannot make or receive calls or hold a cell phone. However, hands-free devices (built in or fixed to the vehicle, that are used by pressing a single button once only) are still allowed.
• Drivers cannot send or read text messages or e-mails.
• Drivers with “Learner” and “Novice” licenses are not permitted to operate any hand-held or hands-free cell phone or other electronic communications device.

This Vancouver Sun article gives all the details about B.C.’s new restrictions on cell phones and other hand-held devices, such as iPods and other MP3 players, while the Winnipeg Free Press recaps the Saskatchewan law.

B.C. drivers caught violating the cell phone law will face a $167 fine and three penalty points on their licenses. In Saskatchewan, the penalties will include a $280 fine and four license points. So if you’re behind the wheel, don’t answer that phone!

We summarized the cell phone laws in other provinces in this earlier post on “Dialing while Driving.”

Photo by Mike “Dakinewavamon” Kline (flickr)