Drivers still texting and talking despite law

Many Alberta drivers are still texting or using their cell phones behind the wheel despite legislation that make the practices illegal.

"We get emails, we get phone calls, complaining about people who are using their hand-held cell phones," said Don Szarko from the Alberta Motor Association.

Distracted driving legislation came into effect on Sept. 1, 2011. Since then, there have been 15,000 convictions across the province. In Edmonton, police have laid more than 3,500 charges.

Although drivers are getting charged, Szarko thinks the novelty of the new law has worn off.

"I do feel and we have a sense from some police across the province that we're seeing a return to use of handheld cell phones while driving and they're confounding that with texting and even writing as they're driving," he said.

"Bizarre behaviors are starting to return."

Drivers who obey the law say they are frustrated by others who choose to ignore it.

"I don't think it's really made a difference," said Wanda Funk. "Most people are still doing what they've done."

This fall, the AMA is launching a campaign in Edmonton high schools about the dangers of distracted driving.