The government of Alberta has introduced a bill to ban the use of hand-held cell phones and texting and restrict the use of other electronics while driving.
Under the Bill 16, drivers would see a fine of $172.00 and no demerit points for violations. Drivers could also face additional penalties if they are caught running a red light or making an improper lane change while using a banned device. The bill will also complement the current driving without due care and attention law, which has a penalty of a $402.00 fine and six demerit points. This could give law enforcement officers the ability to deal with a wider range of dangerous behaviours.
“This legislation is a practical, effective and enforceable approach to the issue of distracted driving,” said Minister of Transportation Luke Ouellette in a news release. “We are sending a strong safety message to all Albertans: When you’re in your vehicle, your focus must be on driving.”
The use of hands free phones would be allowed under the bill, and drivers would be allowed to use cell phones for emergency purposes. The use of CB radios would also be allowed for commercial purposes and search and rescue services.
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