The month of February will see an emphasis on enforcement and education in regards to distracted driving.
Drivers can expect to see the Wood Buffalo RCMP working together with their law enforcement partners to ensure that all users of the road are conducting themselves in a safe and attentive manner. Distracted driving was brought into effect in Alberta on September 1, 2011 and carries a fine of $172.00. Using hand-held phones for talking, texting or emailing, programming GPS systems, reading or writing and personal grooming are among some of the activities that are considered under this offence.
Mounties say not only are these activities distracting to the driver, they are distracting to other motorists on the road. Police are reminding motorists that navigating the roadways throughout the winter months, with often unpredictable weather and road conditions, is challenging enough without any additional distractions. Keep your hands on the steering wheel and your eyes on the road.
