Have you been seriously injured in a car accident that involved another driver who was using their cell phone? Cell phone usage with driving has become a growing trend in Alberta, and a contributing factor to motor vehicle accidents. So much so, the province of Alberta has legislated Bill 16 over the past year, making it illegal for drivers to directly use mobile devices while driving – while hands-free devices are still allowed. Under the new distracted driving law in Alberta, drivers caught using hand-held devices can face a fine of $172.
Current Distracted Driving Rules And Restrictions
Drivers who are caught in the act of the following while operating a motor vehicle:
- Using hand-held cell phones
- Texting or e-mailing with a handheld phone device
- The use of electronic devices like laptop computers, video games, cameras, video entertainment displays, MP3 players
- Using GPS devices
- Reading printed materials while operating a motor vehicle
- Writing, printing or sketching, and personal grooming while operating a motor vehicle
Distracted Driving Laws In Other Canadian Provices
- British Columbia: Banned hand-held devices and texting January 1, 2010. Fines of $167 and three demerit points for texting or email use.
- Saskatchewan: Banned hand-held devices and texting January 1, 2010. Fines of $280, plus four demerit points.
- Manitoba: Recently finalized legislation banning hand-held devices and texting, with fines of $190.80 and up; went into effect July 15, 2010.
- Ontario: Banned hand-held devices and texting October 26, 2009, with tickets issued starting February 1, 2010. Fines of $155.
- Quebec: Banned hand-held devices April 1, 2008. Fines of $80 to $115, plus three demerit points.
- New Brunswick: Currently drafting legislation.
- Nova Scotia: Banned hand-held devices and texting April 1, 2008. Fine of $164.50 for the first offence, and up to $337 for subsequent offences.
- Newfoundland/Labrador: Banned hand-held devices April 1, 2003. Fines of $100 to $400, plus up to four demerit points.
- Prince Edward Island: Banned hand-held devices January 23, 2010. Fines of $250 to $400 and three demerit points.
- Yukon Territory: Considering legislation.
Dealing With Auto Accident Injuries Caused By A Distracted Driver
Whether you are the victim of an on-coming vehicle, or the passenger of a vehicle, where the negligent driver was using a hand-held device during the time of the accident, you have rights to compensation for your injuries, medical bills, and trauma. In these instances, it is important to seek the legal counsel of an experienced personal injury lawyer in Calgary. Our car accident lawyers understand the laws and liability that surround Bill 16, and we can help you in getting the maximum compensation you deserve for your injuries. Call us today for a free consultation and protect your rights.
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