One Text Could Cost a Fortune
Increased fine and demerit points for distracted driving as of Jan. 1
Kiah Lucero, Staff Writer
Whether you’re waiting at a stoplight or stuck in boring rush hour traffic, it can be tempting to quickly peek at your phone while driving.
Whether it’s texting, making a phone call or even personal grooming while on the road, these seemingly minor distractions do affect the way a person is driving. However, some drivers still can’t seem to drop the dangerous habit.
According to the Canadian Automobile Association, in most cases cellphones are the main cause of distracted driving. In comparison to a regular driver, someone who is distracted is 23 times more likely to be involved in a collision.
As of Jan. 1, a new distracted driving law has been implemented for Albertan drivers. Any distractions while driving such as texting, talking on a hand-held device, personal grooming and the use of any electronic device will be penalized with a large fine along with demerit points.
The repercussion for distracted drivers will be a fine of $287 and three demerit points on their driving record. Of course, too many demerits can result in the suspension of a driver’s license.
Until now, Alberta was the only province that did not penalize drivers with demerit points for this offense.
The new distracted driving law hopes to discourage Albertans from using their phones while operating their vehicles, focusing their attention on the road.
While driving can seem tedious, it is a task that requires full attention. Quickly taking five seconds to look at a text can inadvertently lead to a potentially fatal collision. No text is worth your life.
