Albertans facing increased traffic fines

Watch above: A warning for drivers as traffic fines are set to go up on May 1, as part of the Alberta Budget 2015. Stefan Keyes reports.

EDMONTON – Traffic fines across Alberta have jumped 35 per cent, including the penalty for distracted driving.

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The fine for distracted driving in Alberta has increased from $172 to $288 starting Friday, which includes things like using a hand-held phone, texting, and reading or writing while behind the wheel.

READ MORE: One step closer to stricter distracted driving penalties in Alberta

Police hope the increased fine will serve as a greater deterrent for distracted driving.

READ MORE: ‘It’s time to look at demerits in distracted driving’: Alberta justice minister

The province is working on adding a three-demerit point penalty for distracted driving, but that won’t happen until sometime after the election.