February’s focus for Traffic Safety Awareness is “Distracted Driving” and the Regina Police Service, along with our counterparts in law enforcement across Saskatchewan, will be on the lookout, this month, for drivers who aren’t giving their complete attention to driving. This is in keeping with SGI’s declared focus on distracted drivers in February.
Common examples of distracted driving include:
– Using a cellphone to talk or text while driving a motor vehicle on a highway (Section 241.1(2) of the Traffic Safety Act). This law is in effect even when the vehicle is not in motion; in other words, drivers are not permitted to talk on a cellphone or text while stopped at a red light.
– Any activity that takes the driver’s attention away from the primary task of operating the motor vehicle safely, like eating, doing hair or make-up, turning to converse with passengers, reaching for an item in the back seat, etc. These activities are not illegal, but a driver can be charged with Driving Without Due Car and Attention if such an activity distracts the driver from driving safely.
“Driving is a task that requires the utmost attention; the consequences of poor driving can be life-altering,” says Sgt. Colin Glas of the Regina Police Service Traffic Safety Unit. “Motorists also have to keep in mind that driving is a privilege, not a right and that privilege can be taken away.”
Traffic Safety is an aspect of public safety that has the potential to affect all residents of Regina, since almost every citizen uses our roadways, either as a driver, passenger, cyclist or pedestrian. The Regina Police Service commends all drivers who comply with traffic safety laws and enhance safety in our community.