What are the penalties for traffic violations in Alberta?
The province of Alberta has a strict system of penalties for traffic violations aimed at reducing accidents. The amount of fines depends on the type of violation, the location where it was committed, and the driver's history. Below is a detailed breakdown of the current penalties.
1. Speeding
Standard fines:
| Km/h over the limit | Fine (CAD) | Demerit points |
|---|---|---|
| 1–15 | 81–110 | 2 |
| 16–30 | 114–220 | 3 |
| 31–50 | 264–373 | 4 |
| 51+ | 495+ | 6 + court |
Special features:
- In construction zones or in the presence of emergency services, fines are doubled.
- If you exceed 50+ km/h, you will be required to appear in court and risk having your car confiscated.
2. Driving under the influence
First offense:
- BAC 0.05–0.08%:
- 3-day license suspension.
- 3-day vehicle impoundment.
- Fine: CAD 300.
- BAC 0.08%+ or refusal to take a test:
- 90-day license suspension.
- 30-day vehicle impoundment.
- Mandatory alcohol interlock device (1 year).
- Fine: CAD 1,200 + court fees.
Repeat offenses:
- Second: 12–18 months without a license, fine up to $2,000, up to 30 days in jail.
- Third: Up to 120 days in jail, fine up to $5,000, lifetime license suspension (with the possibility of appeal after 10 years).
3. Distracted driving (phone, food)
- Fine: CAD 300 + 3 demerit points.
- Additional: For dangerous driving – CAD 402 + 6 points.
4. Running a red light/stop sign
- Fine: $405 CAD + 3 points.
- Speed camera: Fine of $405 CAD (no points, as the violation is recorded on the car).
5. Failure to wear a seat belt
- Fine: 162 CAD (the driver is responsible for passengers under 16 years of age).
- For children:
- No car seat – 162 CAD.
- Incorrect fastening – 155 CAD.
6. Dangerous driving
| Violation | Fine (CAD) | Points |
|---|---|---|
| Failure to maintain a safe distance | 402 | 4 |
| Failure to stop at the scene of an accident | 2,000 | 7 |
| Racing/stunt driving | 495–2,000 | 6 |
Careless driving:
- Fine: 402–2,000 CAD + 6 points + possible confiscation of license.
7. Parking violations (Edmonton)
| Violation | Fine (CAD) |
|---|---|
| Parking in a prohibited area | 100 |
| Exceeding the parking time limit | 50 |
| Parking a truck in a residential area | 100 |
Additional consequences
- Demerit points: Accumulating 15+ points in 2 years results in a 1-month license suspension.
- Insurance: A 25–800% increase in cost depending on the number of violations.
- Failure to pay the fine: Penalty 20%, car registration blocked, case transferred to debt collectors.
How to appeal a fine?
- File an appeal:
- For criminal offenses – within 7 days through SafeRoads Alberta.
- For standard fines – by the court date indicated on the receipt.
- Use the Fine Option program: Work hours in social services instead of paying.
Useful resources:
Important: Fines and rules are updated annually. Check the official websites for the latest information.