Some Sask. drivers still texting behind the wheel
-
Share on Facebook
-
Share on Bluesky
-
Share on X
- Copy Link
It’s been about five years since using a phone behind the wheel was made illegal in Saskatchewan but people are still doing it.
Texting while driving is the top concern for Canadian drivers, according to CAA, but about 22 per cent of Canadians admit to doing it recently. That number jumps up to 35 per cent in Saskatchewan, compared to 32 per cent in Alberta and 22 per cent in Manitoba.
Distracted driving is one of the top causes of crashes in Saskatchewan. In 2013 there were 5,745 crashes in Saskatchewan related to distracted driving, and 32 people died because of drivers not paying attention.
A ticket for using a phone while driving is $280 plus four points off of your licence. A driver’s vehicle can be seized for seven days for multiple offenses. Between June (when the new law came into effect) and the end of December 2014, 18 vehicles were seized.
Many drivers admitted to News Talk Radio they have at some point sent a text while driving. However, over time people like Charlotte Kessler have learned it’s not safe.
“I’ve heard of people that have got in really horrific accidents and stuff and it’s not worth it, is it?” she said.
“It drives me crazy and I just want to honk my horn and tell them to stop,” said Debra Ulrich.
She admits to texting and driving when cell phones first had the ability, but doesn’t anymore after realizing the dangers.
“You always look up and it’s like ‘Oh I didn’t see that’ after you have done it, so it’s kind of scary when you think about it,” said Kirk Cowman.
