As of September 1, 2011, the new law came into effect that impacts members in Alberta and members visiting Alberta who intend to drive there.

Highlights of the Distracted Driver law:

• The law restricts drivers from:
o using hand-held cell phones
o texting or e-mailing
o using electronic devices like laptop computers, video games, cameras, video entertainment displays and programming portable audio players (e.g., MP3 players)
o entering information on GPS units
o reading printed materials in the vehicle
o writing, printing or sketching, and
o personal grooming
• Complements the current driving without due care and attention legislation
• Applies to all vehicles as defined by the Traffic Safety Act, including bicycles
• Applies to all roads in both urban and rural areas of the province
• The fine for this new offence is $172

What about pets?  In situations where the driver becomes too involved with their pet, police could reasonably argue that the distraction is comparable to the specifically banned activities of reading, writing and grooming, and lay a charge.

Existing legislation allows police to charge a driver who permits anything, including a pet, to occupy the front seat of the vehicle such that it interferes with the driver’s access to the vehicle controls and the safe operation of the vehicle.  The existing law also allows police to charge a driver who permits anything, including a pet, to cause any obstruction to the driver’s clear vision in any direction.

For your own safety, the safety of your family and other drivers, don’t become distracted by anything that takes your attention away from driving.

For more detailed information, including Frequently Asked Questions and other resources, check the following Government of Alberta website:
www.transportation.alberta.ca/DistractedDriving.htm