Fewer distracted drivers on Calgary roads

Whether it’s stiffer penalties or people finally realizing the danger of distracted driving, the number of infractions for not paying attention behind the wheel is going down in Calgary.

Acting Sgt. Ken Richards said even though it’s a positive trend, it has just been a small dip and the fact people are still doing it is an issue.

“When you don’t have your focus on the task of driving the vehicle and you’re trying to multi-task with all the other things that happen on the roadway in terms of roads, weather, pedestrians, that type of thing, then that certainly is a concern,” he said.

Having said that, Richards believes the stiffer penalties are working.

“The increase in the fine and the addition of demerit points, that appears to have probably had an effect on what you’re seeing,” he said.

The law covers a number of different distractions.

“Cell phones and electronic-type devices would be the majority of the things that we’re seeing,” said Richards.

It also includes using laptops and GPS screens, as well as people reading, writing and even grooming.

Anyone convicted of distracted driving in Alberta faces a fine of $287 and three demerit points.

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