Highways, Ferries, and Winter Roads

Distracted Driving 

Distracted driving continues to be a major issue in the Northwest Territories and across Canada.

Since January, 2012, the use of hand-held electronic devices while driving is against the law in the NWT.  A restricted electronic device is defined as a portable electronic device including a cellular telephone, device for sending and receiving data, device for playing audio or video recordings, and handheld global positioning system receiver. Cell phones and laptops are examples of commonly used restricted electronic devices. 

Fine and Demerits

If you are currently caught using a restricted electronic device while driving you could be given:

  • A $322 fine ($644 in school and construction zones)
  • 3 demerit points
  • Administrative driver’s licence suspensions for 2nd, 3rd, and 4th distracted driving offences in a two year period; and

Tips 

  • Pull over to a safe location using your phone.
  • Say no to a distracted driver.
  • Don't be a distraction to your driver.
  • Don't allow children to be a distraction.
  • Don't get into arguments.
  • Keep your voice level down.
  • Avoid loud noises, such as loud music.
  • Eat at home or at your destination.