CAA Wants to Ban Distractions

By 250 News

Novice drivers in B.C. will have fewer distractions, but more restrictions, if the province follows through on the recommendations of the Canadian Automobile Association (CAA).

David Flewelling, president of the CAA, has asked provinces to pass legislation banning the use of electronic devices for those in graduated licensing programs. Flewelling’s proposed ban would affect all hand-held and hands-free electronics, such as iPods, games, and cell phones.

B.C. Solicitor General John Les is willing to review any new research on the effect of distractions on accident rates, but he’s not certain a ban is the way to go. Local diving instructor Steve Wallace understands the danger of distractions for novice drivers, but he agrees the recommendations need further study.

“Distractions for teenagers are doubly important because of the inexperience they have in driving. They don’t multitask very well when driving, that’s a learned skill,” says Wallace. However, Wallace emphasizes that any changes would have to allow young drivers to have cell phones available for emergency use. “Teenage girls in particular, especially with the kind of criminal activity they are susceptible to, should have some kind of communication device while driving. We recommend a hands-free model,” says Wallace.

“Many people believe we have a serial killer working on Highway 16. Why would you identify young female drivers with an “N” already, then take away their ability to phone for help?” asks Wallace.

Wallace says drivers of all ages and experience levels engage in numerous distracting activities while driving, but because they’re most obvious, cell phones get the most blame. “I’ve seen people eating hamburgers and banana splits, even changing a baby’s diaper while driving. It’s not only cell phones causing problems, and it’s not only teens doing this.”

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