This should have been easy with a search for "Citizen Band Radio Law in Canada" but my confidence that I have an absolute answer is low......so I'm wrong again. The consensus is that your steering wheel needs to be in your hands while driving.
'keep your eyes on the road and your hands behind the wheel'
For entertainment value, It's best if you start this video before you read through the pile of info........
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2xzFWm9uXJo
The new laws spin around Bill 16 and the interpretation. My experience is that if you have a chatting device in your hand while you're driving you can be fined $150.00 - $240.00+.
In Alberta the definition is a little grey saying
some commercial use is exempt and recreational use is banned.....unless you're parked.....of course.
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http://www.trucknews.com/news/alberta-to-ban-recreational-use-of-cb-radios/1000397258/
http://www.transportation.alberta.ca/distracteddriving.htm
Are there any exemptions to this law?
Yes. Drivers who talk on hands-free radios, phones or hands-free radio communication devices won't violate the law. In addition, radio communications, such as those commonly referred to as CB (Citizen's Band) radios, will be allowed for certain commercial purposes, to maintain contact with one's employer and search and rescue services only. All drivers will be able to use hand-held devices to contact 911 emergency services and this law will not interfere with the official duties of emergency service personnel including enforcement, fire and medical services.
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Alberta supporting info
http://www.trucknews.com/news/alberta-to-ban-recreational-use-of-cb-radios/1000397258/
"Drivers, including commercial truck drivers, who are required by their employer to maintain two-way radio communication, for example via a CB radio, may use a hand-held twoway radio communication device for the purposes of contacting their employer while acting within the scope of that individual's employment," she said. "Recreational use of a hand-held twoway radio communication device is not permitted under Bill 16."
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Ontario
http://www.caasco.com/Community-Action/Government-Relations/Ontario-Cell-Phone-Legislation.aspx
[h=5]Commercial drivers[/h]Hand-mikes (push-to-talk systems) and portable radios (walkie-talkies) may be used in a hands-free mode. This would mean the motorist can use a lapel button or other hands-free application as long as the hand-mike or walkie-talkie is not held while driving.
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Provincial info by video
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xyJH3s-rRnU
Recreational use while driving is banned but..........here is a little data from Ontario
http://www.mto.gov.on.ca/english/safety/distracted-driving/exemptions.shtml
Commercial drivers in transport-related industries (e.g., school buses, taxis, couriers) and public service workers (e.g., transit and highway maintenance workers) rely on the use of certain types of wireless devices and display screen technologies in the performance of their duties.
To help these businesses stay competitive, Ontario granted a three-year exemption which has been extended for an additional five years (to January 1, 201
to allow for hands-free technologies to be developed:
- Hand-held two-way radios for commercial purposes, including mobile and CB radios.
THE LAW
http://www.e-laws.gov.on.ca/html/regs/english/elaws_regs_090366_e.htm
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.....and so we all use the same jargon while chattin' eh' here is
Some CB lingo
http://www.cloakanddagger.ca/cb-radio/