New driving laws kick in today

New road safety rules are taking effect today with much higher fines for distracted driving and opening doors in front of cyclists.

A ticket for distracted driving means you’ll pay a set fine of $490.00 and lose three demerit points, but the fine can go as high as $1000.  Novice drivers can have their license suspended.

That’s up from the previous minimum fine of $280.00 with no demerit points, which affect insurance premiums.

Remember that distracted driving includes everything from talking or texting on your cellphone, to fiddling with your GPS, or fussing with the kids in the backseat — anything that takes your eyes off the road.

There are also new rules to protect cyclists and tow truck drivers.

Drivers will now need to leave a minimum one metre distance when passing cyclists, or face a minimum fine of $110.00 and two demerit points.   Those who open a car door in the path of a cyclist will face an  increased fine of $365.00 and three demerit points.

Cyclists can also face fines of $110 for not having proper lighting on their bicycles.

The ‘slow down, pull over’ rule for emergency vehicles also now applies to tow trucks that are assisting other vehicles.

Also beginning January 1, drivers will have to wait until pedestrians have completely crossed the street at a crossover or school crossing before proceeding.