Talking on a cellphone while driving is on its way out in Alberta. So is texting and programming GPS devices. The new law will come into effect September 1st.
“People shouldn’t be driving and talking on their phone anyway,” said Beth Jessop. “People shouldn’t be that silly.”
Jessop said the new law seems unnecessary. “People are supposed to pay attention to the road. That should be enough,” she said, adding she’s uncertain a new law will change anything. “The question is, will it be enforced?”
The new law was announced in June and will start this Thursday. The new law prohibits the use of hand-held cellphones for talking or texting, the use of other electronic devices, reading, writing and personal grooming while driving. Driving while handling food such as coffee is not included in the legislation. Const. Rick Buisseret told the Province last week, part of the process will be educating the public with warnings.
“If I see some guy, he’s on his cellphone, his driving pattern is normal and he’s doing his normal thing I’ll pull him over and give him a warning. If I see the guy’s all over the road and he runs a red light and he’s on his cellphone, damn skippy I’m going to be writing him a ticket for that.”
A ticket will cost $172. They can face additional charges if they commit other traffic violations such as running a red light or making an improper lane change. Drivers can also be charged under the existing driving without due care and attention law, a more serious offence with a fine of $402 and six demerit points.
“Alberta’s new distracted driving law is a good addition to our overall strategy to keep Albertans safer while on the road,” said Luke Ouellette, minister of transportation, in a prepared statement last week. “We want all drivers to practice safe driving habits to ensure we all return home safely at the end of each day.”
Drivers can still use cellphones or radio communication devices, but only if they use them in a hands-free or voice-activated manner. This means the device is not held in the driver's hand and is activated by voice or a single touch to the device. Drivers may use a hand-held citizen’s band (CB) or two-way radio when escorting oversized vehicles, to contact one's employer, or when participating in search, rescue and emergency management situations.
“I can understand being on the cellphone,” said Jim Gehring of what action deserves a ticket. “I drive the highway a lot and people look drunk – they’re swerving all over the place [texting]. But when it comes to staying hydrated or getting some food – that should be fine. You can still eat and focus on the road.”
