Alberta eyes ban on driving distractions

A Calgary MLA has introduced a bill banning distractions such as cellphones and personal grooming while driving in Alberta.

The proposed Bill 16 would prohibit drivers from using hand-held devices that can transfer phone calls, email or text messages. Hand-held music or audio players as well as navigation systems would be allowed but only if motorists were not manually programming them while driving.

Drivers caught doing any of the listed activities while driving would be fined $172. That would be added to other charges if they were committing other violations, such as running a red light or making an improper lane change, at the same time.

The bill allows hands-free phones as well as two-way radios for commercial and search-and-rescue purposes. The proposed law would not affect emergency response personnel, according to a provincial news release issued Wednesday.

Bill 16 is designed give police agencies a more detailed law to complement the current offence of driving without due care and attention, which carries a fine of $402 and six demerit points.

"This is a complex issue and I believe we have found a good balance between enforcement and safety," said Art Johnston, who represents Calgary-Hays and introduced the bill.

Sketching prohibited

Reading, writing, drawing, sketching, and attending to personal hygiene are the other prohibited activities while driving listed in the proposed bill.

"We are sending a strong safety message to all Albertans: When you're in your vehicle, your focus must be on driving," said Transportation Minister Luke Ouellette.

The bill is scheduled to be debated in the legislature this fall.

In September 2009, Strathcona County, east of Edmonton, became the first Alberta municipality to ban hand-held cellphones while driving.

Nova Scotia, Newfoundland and Labrador, Prince Edward Island, Quebec, Ontario and Saskatchewan have instituted cellphone bans while driving.