Distracted driving debate
Shannon LeClair – Times Reporter
The proposed distracted driving law, Bill16, has the Alberta government trying to weed through what is considered a distraction.
Talking and texting on cell phones, reading, writing and grooming are just a few of the distractions being discussed.
Strathmore RCMP Staff Sgt. Larry Marzinzik said he is “not really for it or against it,” and, though the RCMP doesn’t have input in what is being discussed, “any rule can be a good one as long as it is used appropriately to keep everyone in a safe zone.”
The Alberta government is proposing a ban on all hand held devices while driving, but the use of hands-free phones will be allowed. Drivers who do not follow the guidelines set by Bill 16, face a fine of $172, and no loss of demerit points.
Bill 16 also complements the current driving without due care and attention law, a serious offence with fines of $402 and a loss of six demerits, by allowing police and RCMP more flexibility when it comes to dealing with distracted drivers.
“We are sending a strong safety message to all Albertans: When you’re in your vehicle, your focus must be on driving,” said Luke Ouellette, minister of transportation, in a press release.
Staff Sgt. Marzinzik recently heard on the radio that drinking coffee while driving is being discussed as a distraction.
“It’s common sense that someone putting on make-up will be distracted, but does coffee lead to distracted drivers? I don’t know,” said Marzinzik.
“Almost anything could be considered a distraction, I think that’s what they are discussing now.”
Distracted and careless driving is not a new issue for the RCMP. It’s something they have been dealing with for decades. Accidents have been caused by drivers changing the song on their stereo, or reaching to pick up a bottle their child has dropped. All it takes is looking away for just a second and there could potentially be an accident.
“We deal with careless and distracted drivers as best we can,” said Marzinzik.
Marzinzik can’t remember a particular accident involving a cell phone here in town but said “distractions came in long before cell phones.”
The issue is to be debated further in the legislature this fall, allowing both public and traffic safety stakeholders a chance to look over and comment on Bill 16.