Distracted Driving

Distracted driving is one of the great unreported traffic safety problems facing Canadians today. Advancements in technology have given us GPS, I-Pods, cell phones capable of browsing the internet and text messaging. However,technology alone cannot shoulder all the blame for distracted drivers. Anything from looking at a map to find your route to dealing with the kids in the back seat of the car can be a distraction. Only a handful of studies have been conducted on the subject of distracted driving, but the most recent data indicates that 80% of collisions are caused by some form of driver distraction.

Some ways to reduce the number of distractions inside your vehicle are:

• Don't answer a cell phone or read a text message while driving. Wait until you have reached your destination to use your phone.
• Know the route you are taking to your destination, and if you are travelling an unfamiliar route, budget extra time into your trip.
• Ensure the volume of the music is at a reasonable level. Loud music can drown out the siren of an emergency vehicle trying to get around you.
• Know your vehicle and where various gauges and radio control knobs are so you are not looking where they are while driving.

Section 115 (1) of the Traffic Safety Act prohibits drivers who operate vehicles without due care and attention from using the highway. Motorists in Alberta are also not permitted to drive with a person, animal or thing occupying the front seat of the vehicle that impedes the drivers' access and use ofthe steering wheel, brakes and other equipment necessary to operate the vehicle safely. Motorists convicted of violating this Section may be subject to a loss of up to six demerit points and a fine of $402. It is also an offence for the operator of a motor vehicle to be able to view the screen of a portable entertainment system while the vehicle is in motion.

To bring attention to the importance of driving with out distraction, between February 1st to 14th, 2010 the Medicine Hat Police Service safety messaging trailer will be displaying "No text message or phone call is as important as your life"