A recent study from Virginia Tech Transportation Institute about cellphone distraction while driving reported that drivers who are texting are 23 times more likely to be in a collision than those who don’t. Talking on a cellphone makes the driver 3 to 6 times more likely to be in a collision.
That’s why the vehicle must be safely stopped on the side of the road and in park before using your hand-held cellphone.
- New drivers - those in the Graduated Driver's Licensing (GDL) program - are not able to use any type of cellphone while driving. Using a cellphone's 10-4 'push to talk' technology (similar to a walkie-talkie) is also prohibited.
- Experienced drivers - those not in GDL - are allowed to use hands-free devices.
The penalty for using a cellphone while driving is $280 (which includes a victims' surcharge of $60) and 4 demerit points under the Safe Driver Recognition and Driver Improvement programs.
SGI administers this law under The Traffic Safety Act. An overview of Saskatchewan's cellphone legislation can be reviewed in the legislation impact chart (pdf, 27 kb).
Exemptions
Police, fire and emergency medical services personnel are permitted to use hand-held cellphones in the performance of their duties.
306-775-6042
1-800-667-8015 ext. 6042
