Saskatchewan Government Insurance and the Saskatoon Police Service are reminding residents to put their phone away and to refrain from doing any activities behind the wheel that may get them a distracted driving ticket.

Saskatoon Police Staff Sergeant Nolan Berg says the SPS has issued over 50 distracted driving tickets since new penalties were introduced on February 1st.

A first time offence for distracted driving will now land you a $580 dollars fine and four demerit points. That’s up from the previous fine of $280 dollars.

SGI’s Tyler McMurchy says the laws haven’t changed and if you haven’t gotten a ticket previously for drinking coffee or eating a snack while driving, you likely won’t get a ticket now. McMurchy says distracted driving tickets depend on whether or not the driver can remain focused on driving while carrying out things such as snacking.

McMurchy says SGI has received a number of questions since the 1st in regards to distracted driving laws. He says one of the most frequently asked questions is “Can I not talk to a passenger?” McMurchy says that’s not the case, it’s just that your primary attention has to be on the road while behind the wheel.

Staff Sergeant Berg says if you have your cell phone on a holder that’s connected to your dash or windshield, it’s okay to use your phone for things such as GPS. Learner and novice drivers aren’t allowed to use hands-free devices period.

A second offence within a year will now land you a $1400 fine, a seven-day vehicle seizure and four demerit points. If there s a third conviction, the driver will face a $2,100 fine with more points and a seizure. A third offence in a year will result in a $2100 dollar fine, four points and a seven-day vehicle impoundment.