Saskatchewan highways are expected to be busy this long weekend as many people head out of town for Canada Day celebrations.
SGI Spokesperson Tyler McMurchy says distracted driving is something drivers should try really hard to avoid.
"I think it's really important you avoid any kind of distractions if you are behind the wheel," McMurchy said. "Of course, we know that distracted driving is consistently one of the leading causes of collisions that cause injury and death, and at highway speeds, a couple of seconds of inattention can have deadly consequences."
McMurchy said there are a variety of things that constitute distracted driving.
"Those busy highways require drivers to be extra alert, and when you're driving that means leaving the phone alone," he said. "And being aware of other potential distractions as well...whether it's messy foods from the drive-thru you just went through, or unruly passengers, unrestrained pets, even smoking."
"Avoiding those distractions is a great way to avoid a collision, and also help you avoid one of those expensive distracted driving tickets."
He said that distracted driving tickets are $580 for a first-time offence in Saskatchewan.
McMurchy also reminded drivers that having a cell phone in their hand is an automatic ticket if a police officer spots it.
"I don't think any text, any TikTok, any YouTube video, or any Netflix show is worth a $580 ticket."