Due to their age and inexperience, young and new drivers are more likely to be involved in injury and fatal collisions, according to the Alberta RCMP in an August 6 media release, reminding new and experienced drivers to exercise caution when out driving.
Sgt. Bobby Burgess with the St. Paul RCMP agrees.
“New drivers are also more likely to be involved in collisions when they initially drive on ice and snow for the first time due to reduced control and extended stopping distances with reduced traction,” said Sgt. Burgess.
He says he understands it is very easy for new drivers to become excited when they get their licence.
"But it’s important to use caution when driving and only drive to your capabilities,” he explains.
In the St. Paul area, Burgess says the most common issues or violations he sees among new and young drivers are stunting, distracted driving including eating or using electronic devices while driving and speeding.
Burgess also asks drivers not to drink and drive. He says there is zero alcohol tolerance for new drivers.
He also explained that with Mandatory Alcohol Screening (MAS), police officers can demand anybody they lawfully stopped for a breathing sample even if they may not suspect alcohol impairment.
New drivers also cannot drive on highways that are numbered with single digits, like Highway 1 (Trans-Canada Highway) or QE2 (Queen Elizabeth II Highway), he said.
Safety Tips
Other new driver safety tips and reminders from Alberta RCMP includes that drivers with a learner or probationary license cannot drive on their own and must be accompanied by a valid Class 5 driver.
Posted speed limits are also for ideal conditions, and drivers have to slow down in poor road conditions.
When passing, avoid tailgating and only pass when it is safe.
There are also other users to a roadway including bicycles and motorcycles which can be difficult to spot, so Alberta RCMP reminds drivers to always be mindful of their surroundings.
