Drivers face fines and bans for cellphone use

MONDAY, DECEMBER 19: Driving while using a cellphone could cost you up to $1,000 and see your licence suspended for six months.

The Bermuda Police Service will begin ticketing motorists using cellphones or other electronic devices that distract their attention from driving. This includes televisions which are visible to the driver.

Minister of Transport Derrick Burgess said today: “It is now an offence for the operator of any vehicle to use a hand-held mobile phone, a hand-held entertainment device or any other hand-held device while operating the vehicle. 

“It is also an offence for the vehicle to have a television or any other display screen that is visible to the driver.”

Motorcyclists are not off the hook either as those with cellphones stuck inside helmets will also be ticketed.

For first offences fines can be levied up to $500. Second offences within two years impose fines up to $750 and a third offense within two years can net a fine up to $1,000 or six months off the road or both.

Magistrates also have discretion to order six-month driving bans for first and second offences and up to 18 months for a third offense.

Points will be deducted from a driver’s licence.

Minister Burgess said: “This amendment has now been passed by the lower and upper houses and the Governor has signed it into law.

“Motorists have been warned — do not drive whilst using a cell phone or other electronic devices such as a display screen or you are liable to be ticketed and fined in court.”

Minister Burgess said there is scientific proof that using a cellphone while driving was equivalent to driving under the influence of alcohol.

“It has been well established that distracted drivers are more prone to have traffic accidents when their attention is diverted away from controlling their vehicle. 

“As Bermuda’s roads get busier, this factor has become more acute and can have a negative impact on public safety. 

“It is quite common these days to see drivers and riders talking on cell phones and even texting while driving on our roads. 

“Clearly, measures need to be taken to stop this dangerous practice and these offences and harsh penalties are designed to accomplish this.”