Source: Government of Canada regional news (2)
Research shows that up to 30 per cent of all motor vehicle collisions are caused by distracted drivers. Looking at the phone, emailing, texting and other distracted behaviors while driving can result in tragic consequences that are totally preventable.
Alberta’s distracted driving law restricts drivers from doing any of the following, even while stopped at red lights:
- Using hand-held cell phones, including texting or emailing.
- Using electronic devices such as laptop computers, video games, cameras, video entertainment displays and programming portable audio players such as MP3 players.
- Entering information on GPS units.
- Reading printed materials.
- Writing, printing or sketching.
- Personal grooming such as brushing and flossing teeth, putting on makeup, curling hair, clipping nails or shaving.
Quick facts
- There were 11,314 convictions for distracted driving between April 1, 2023 and March 31, 2024.
- 93 per cent of distracted driving convictions were for using a hand-held electronic device while driving.
- Distracted driving related penalties include:
- Distracted driving – $300 fine and three demerit points
- Careless driving – fine of up to $1,200 and six demerit points
Related information
- Distracted driving | Alberta.ca
Multimedia
- Distractions can be deadly – YouTube
- Keep your friends safe – YouTube