In 2023, the Alberta RCMP ticketed 5,000 motorists provincially for distracted driving, and Strathmore's detachment handed out 245 of those tickets. 

40 tickets were given to drivers in Strathmore and 17 in Wheatland County, said RCMP Staff Sergeant Mark Wielgosz. 

Langdon had the highest number of distracted driving offenses in the area, as 98 motorists were ticketed.

Rocky View County was a close second with 90 instances of distracted driving. 

“Driving requires a motorist's complete attention for them to be fully aware of their surroundings and other road users. When a motorist's focus is removed from the road, there is an increased risk of driver error, collision, and serious injury,” Mounties said in a press release. 

The RCMP offers some advice to ensure that your commute remains distraction-free: 

  • If it impairs your driving, it's a distraction - Distracted driving is not limited to texting or talking on a cellphone. It also includes reading, writing, adjusting a GPS or audio device, attending to passengers or pets, personal grooming, or any activity that may impair your ability to operate a vehicle. 
  • Plan ahead - Before driving, prepare your GPS, pre-set your playlists, and do not adjust unless the vehicle is fully stopped. 
  • Pull over and park - If you need to text, make a call, or engage in an activity that takes your attention away from the road, pull over into a safe location and park your vehicle. 

Send your news tips, story ideas, pictures, and videos to news@strathmorenow.com.