The Alberta Traffic Safety Act indicates a variety of prohibited activities while driving.
Many activities could be considered distracted driving, or lead to careless driving.
Is it illegal to eat and drive in Alberta?
Eating and driving is not specifically restricted under the law. You can still face legal consequences if these activities lead to careless driving.
Activities than can lead to careless driving, but not specifically prohibited by law
- using a cell phone in hands-free mode – the device is not held in the driver’s hand and is activated by voice or a single touch to the device
- using an earphone – if it is used in a hands-free or voice-activated manner
- drinking beverages – coffee, water or pop
- eating a snack
- smoking
- talking with passengers
- listening to a portable audio player – as long as it is set up before you begin driving
- calling emergency services such as 9-1-1 with a hand-held cell phone
- using two-way radios or hand-held radios (also known as CB radios) when a driver is required to remain in contact with one’s employer, such as when escorting oversized vehicles or when participating in search, rescue and emergency management situations
While you may not get fined for these activities while driving, they can lead to dangerous situations if you are not careful.
You can still receive a $300 fine and 3 demerit points for distracted driving.
In Summary
- Eating while driving is not specifically restricted under Alberta’s distracted driving laws.
- You can still receive fines and demerit points for careless driving.
- Always limit unnecessary activities while driving, regardless of the exact letter of the law.
