By Andrea Nicholl
The demand for hands-free communication technologies in the Border City has exploded upon the recent cellphone legislation passed in Saskatchewan.
The new law came into affect on Jan.1, 2010 and prohibits all drivers in Saskatchewan from using hand-held cellphones to talk, text or use the internet behind the wheel.
While experienced drivers are permitted to use hands-free devices, the feat to find such technologies in town may prove to be a challenge as time goes on and charges are laid.
“As soon as the fine and the demerits were confirmed people started jumping on it,” said Tony Gray, sales/ research associate at Northwind Radio Ltd.
“We’ve had tonnes of people coming in. I would say close to 50 per cent of our customers right now are looking for hands-free (devices).”
Manager of Sabre Communications, Norm Namur, agreed, saying sales for hands-free devices increased substantially during the later part of December and have remained steady since.
“Sales have definitely gone up 60 to 70 per cent since the law came in,” said Namur.
“I think for the most part (the law) has been very well received. It definitely helps you keep your eyes on the road.”
Consumers have an array of hands-free devices to choose from including visor mounts, earpieces, headsets and hard mounts (wired into your vehicle’s speakers) which for the most part, are compatible with all newer phones.
The appropriate type of device depends on each individual application, said Namur.
Those driving a diesel truck or semi should opt for a hard mount, while a visor mount, earpiece or headset may be more practical for those driving smaller vehicles around town.
New users looking for the easiest and smoothest transition should consider investing in the BlackBerry Visor Mount Speakerphone VM-605 or Motorola MotoRok T505 (compatible with all bluetooth devices), Gray suggested.
While both Northwind Radio Ltd. and Sabre Communications have a wide selection of hands-free devices, consumers should be prepared to revert to a different product in the case of high-demand items and lines.
Motorists using a hand-held cellphone while driving on the Saskatchewan side of the border, or on 50 Avenue, are subject to a $280 fine and four demerit points.