New Brunswick RCMP is making it clear that distracted driving covers more than just using a handheld electronic device.
Media liaison Constable Hans Ouellette says being distracted is a form of impaired driving, because a driver’s concentration isn’t fully on the road.
“Distracted driving qualifies as several things,” says Ouellette. “Could be talking on the cellphone, texting, reading either on a book, map, newspaper, using a GPS, watching videos and movies, other things like eating and drinking, smoking, personal grooming.”
Ouellette says there are different definitions between provinces, but it is essentially anything that takes away the driver’s concentration.
He adds there are limited exemptions to these laws.
“Now, there are special circumstances under which of course it’s safe to use a cellular device,” says Ouellette. “So if you do see a hazardous driver swerving or driving erratically, what we recommend is to safely pull over with your hazard lights on and call 911.”
He adds the provincial Motor Vehicle Act lays out all the details, including the definition of handheld electronic device.
“It could be a GPS system, a cellphone, a two way radio, portable entertainment device, or any other device that would include those types of functions,” says Ouellette. “That would necessarily take your attention away from your eyes on the road and having safe driving habits.”
The entirety of the New Brunswick Motor Vehicle Act can be found HERE
Additionally, the RCMP have nationally started a campaign called “Leave The Phone Alone” to remind people to put it away while driving.
