Have you ever dialed a phone while driving? How about texting or setting your GPS? Either one takes your eyes off the road and anything can happen while your eyes are diverted elsewhere. These small actions don't seem so bad, however, they all could contribute to an untimely death or injury and as of September 1 are now illegal!
There are many factors that have contributed to the issue of "distracted driving" including the technological advances over the last 20 years, a preconceived notion that one must be connected to work and home at all times, perceptions that driving is an unproductive task, and people are trying to accomplish more in less time. Technology is quickly changing how we cope with day- -to-day tasks. Driving is an extremely complicated task that we do almost every day and it may seem like it is no big deal. However, we all know that is not the case. When driving we must realize the responsibility that comes with that privilege and focus our attention on not only driving, but driving in a manner that is safe for all road users.
Alberta's new distracted driving legislation is one of the most comprehensive in North America and certainly in Canada. This law not only covers hand-held cellphone usage while driving but also the use of other electronic devices such as laptops, mp3 players, GPS units, DVD players and many more. Also covered under the new legislation are reading, writing and personal grooming. There are certain exemptions for specific circumstances but overall you are being asked to focus your attention on your driving and not on combing your hair or setting coordinates on your GPS. Hands-free cellphone use is allowed under the legislation so it is not a total ban on electronic communication.
It seems that almost everyone has their own distracted driving horror story to tell, usually of a crash or near miss that they witnessed. It is hoped that this new law will put the emphasis back into driving and will help make Alberta's roads a much safer place to be for all. Besides being dangerous, breaking the distracted driving law could result in a $172 fine.
If you or your organization wants to learn more on the distracted legislation please call Len Wagner, Regional Traffic Safety Consultant with the Office of Traffic Safety at 403-740-6741 or by e-mail at [email protected]. Visit www.saferoads.com
