The traffic safety focus for the month of February will be on distracted driving.

As soon as a driver gets behind the wheel, driving should be the top thing on their mind. When a driver is distracted, focus is taken off the road and the consequences to traffic safety can be serious. Drivers in Alberta are encouraged to keep their eyes and their mind on the road.

Distracted Driving Facts:

• Research shows that distracted driving plays a role in 20 to 30 per cent of all collisions.

• Distracted drivers are three times more likely to be involved in collisions than attentive drivers.

• Some studies have shown that texting impairs driving more than alcohol or drugs.

• Between September 1, 2011, when distracted driving legislation was introduced, and March 31, 2019, there were 186,564 convictions.

• 97 per cent of these convictions were for using a hand-held communication or electronic device while driving.

• During the 2018-19 fiscal year, male drivers accounted for nearly two-thirds of all convictions.

• Overall, male drivers, aged 25 to 44 years, have the highest conviction rates.

• Drivers can stay alert and attentive by following a few tips: putting their phones away, keeping both hands on the wheel, planning ahead any use of GPS units or audio systems, and pulling over if needed.