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By rdnewsNOW Staff

over 5,000 charges in 2023

Alberta RCMP reminds motorists of the dangers of distracted driving

Feb 8, 2024 | 4:25 PM

The Alberta RCMP is reminding motorists of the importance of distraction-free driving.

RCMP officials say driving requires a motorist’s complete attention in order for them to be fully aware of their surroundings and other road users. They add that when a motorist’s focus is removed from the road, there is an increased risk of driver error, collision, and serious injury.

They state that despite the dangers of distracted driving being common knowledge, Alberta RCMP charged over 5,000 motorists in 2023 for the offence.

RCMP are sharing the following points for drivers to make sure their commute is free of distractions:

• If it impairs driving – it’s a distraction. Distracted driving is not limited to texting or talking on a handheld device while operating a vehicle — it also includes personal grooming, reading, writing, adjusting GPS or audio devices, attending to passengers or pets, and any other activity that might impair a driver’s ability to operate a vehicle safely.
• Plan ahead. Before putting a vehicle in drive, drivers should prepare by pre-setting their hands-free device, GPS, radio or music and not make adjustments unless the vehicle is stopped.
• Pull over and put it in park. If a driver needs to text, make a call, or engage in any distracting activity, they should pull over where it is safe to do so and park their vehicle. Simply coming to a stop at a red light is not safe and is still considered distracted driving.

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“That quick text or GPS adjustment can have big costs. A distracted driving fine is $300, but even worse than that, it can cost you your life, or someone else’s” said Sergeant Darrin Turnbull, Alberta RCMP Traffic. “Distractions behind the wheel can have significant and lasting impacts, no matter how quick or harmless they may seem, or how experienced of a drive you may be. Distracted driving is dangerous and never worth the risk.”

For more traffic safety information, follow on Facebook @RCMPinAlberta and Twitter @RCMPAlberta and #BadRoadmance.