Trucker worried ban will be extended to include CBs

[Cybergal]

Trucker worried ban will be extended to include CBs
3/14/08
Truro Daily News, Canada

TRURO – Trucking is an industry dependent on communication and some drivers are concerned a ban on hand-held cellphones could eventually include other communication devices.

Bill Dowe, chairman of the Truckers Association of Nova Scotia, said although he supports the hand-held cellphone ban coming into effect on April 1, he is worried hand-held citizens-band radios or two-way radios may eventually be included in the ban.
“We’re an environment where when people want to talk to you, communication is of the utmost importance,” said Dowe.
“We’re in a service industry that when people call, they don’t want to leave a message on your office phone or home phone, they want an immediate response.”

He said communication is a premium and some days operators save hundreds of dollars by being able to stay on top of scheduling loads, rerouting trucks and meeting customers’ demands.

He also feels there should be more areas for vehicles and trucks to pull off along Nova Scotia’s roads to provide a safe place for people to make cellphone calls if they don’t have hands-free devices.
Colchester County RCMP Cpl. Larry Sharbell said people should be taking steps now to prepare for the incoming law such as getting appropriate technology to operate cellphones hands-free or by practising pulling over to make calls or text message.
“It’s going to be a measured approach with education but the law is quite clear,” said the officer.

Next month, using a hand-held cellphone or text messaging while driving will cost $50 for a first offence, $100 for the second and $200 for the third and subsequent offences.
Sharbell said all police vehicles have been converted to hands-free cellphones and members have been educated on the incoming law. “It’s going to be a hard pill for some people to swallow but it’s coming, you know it’s coming, so get ready,” said Sharbell. “The excuse, I haven’t had the chance to get a hands-free, will be too late on April 1.”
http://www.trurodaily.com/index.cfm?sid=117153&sc=68