Police in B.C. are looking at harsher penalties for distracted drivers, which may have an influence on legislation in Alberta.
B.C.’s Chiefs of Police Association is looking at increased fines and even seizure of devices for repeat offenders.
However, the president of Edmonton’s Police Association said he doesn’t think that would really deter persistent violators.
“I think the practicality of seizing a cell phone and expecting that particular person is not going to have access to another one may be a problem,” Sgt. Tony Simioni explained.
Edmonton drivers agree.
“People can just go out and get a new cell phone so it’s not like you are solving any problems by taking it away,” Coralee Fisk said.
“I think it really is going to take something to affect somebody personally in order to get them to stop,” Scott Pyle told CTV News.
Pyle said it took the death of a friend to change his mind.
He explained his friend was killed in what police believe to be a texting and driving incident.
“That was enough for me to stop.
“There’s nothing that’s too important that it can’t wait 10 or 15 minutes until you stop and then you can handle it then.”
Sgt. Simioni said he believed a higher penalty would be more effective to get drivers to stop.
With files from Amanda Anderson
