Driving in Stony Plain comes with its own set of challenges. While obeying traffic rules is essential everywhere, knowing the specific road safety laws in Alberta—and how they apply to your daily commute—can help you stay safe and avoid costly fines.
Whether you’re a new driver or a seasoned local, staying updated on the latest regulations ensures you’re doing your part to protect yourself and others on the road. In this post, we’ll cover the top 7 road safety laws every Stony Plain driver should know.
1. Right-of-Way Rules at Intersections
Failing to yield properly is one of the top reasons new drivers fail their test. In Alberta:
- At uncontrolled intersections, yield to the vehicle on your right.
- When turning left, yield to oncoming traffic.
- At four-way stops, the first vehicle to stop proceeds first. If you arrive simultaneously, yield to the vehicle on your right.
Tip: AJ Driving School’s instructors drill real-world scenarios in our in-car lessons so you confidently navigate complex intersections.
2. Understanding Speed Limits
Speed laws vary by area:
- 50 km/h in urban areas unless posted otherwise
- 30 km/h in school zones (from 7:30 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. on school days)
- 100 km/h on provincial highways outside urban areas
Exceeding limits, especially in winter or near construction zones, can result in hefty fines and demerits.
Simulator Training Highlight: Practice judgment in varying speed conditions with our real-time driving simulator.
3. Distracted Driving Is Illegal
Using handheld devices (texting, GPS, phone) while driving is banned under Alberta’s distracted driving law. Convictions carry:
- $300 fines
- 3 demerit points
- Higher insurance premiums
Our Tip: AJ Driving School trains you to stay focused behind the wheel, especially during high-risk scenarios like night driving and icy roads.
4. Mechanical Vehicle Requirements
Alberta’s Traffic Safety Act requires all vehicles to meet mechanical safety standards. Common violations:
- Broken brake lights
- Bald tires (especially dangerous during snow season)
- Cracked windshields obstructing view
In-Class Tip: We review how to do pre-trip mechanical checks, a must-know skill for winter and rural road conditions in places like Stony Plain and Spruce Grove.
5. Impaired Driving Consequences
Alberta enforces zero tolerance for new drivers with a GDL license. Legal consequences include:
- Immediate license suspension
- Vehicle impoundment
- Fines and criminal charges for BAC over 0.08%
AJ’s curriculum emphasizes safe driving habits and real consequences, reinforced in our defensive driving modules.
6. Seatbelt and Passenger Laws
All passengers must wear seatbelts. As a driver, you’re responsible for minors in the car. Failure to comply leads to:
- Fines
- Demerits
- Reduced chances of surviving a crash
We ensure all AJ Driving School students demonstrate proper seatbelt use before moving on to higher-level driving lessons.
7. Obeying School Bus Rules
When a school bus activates red flashing lights and a stop arm:
- You must stop in both directions unless separated by a median.
- Failing to stop results in a $543 fine and 6 demerits.
This law is particularly important in residential areas and rural routes around Stony Plain and Edmonton.
Learn Local Roads with Certified Instructors & Real Scenarios
We offer:
- Certified instructors with local road knowledge
- Flexible formats: in-class, simulator, and in-vehicle training
- Insurance-reducing defensive driving courses
- Test-prep focused on real Alberta road test criteria
Whether you’re preparing for your Class 5 license, brushing up on winter driving skills, or ensuring you understand Alberta’s traffic laws, AJ Driving School in Edmonton is your partner on the road to success.
Our courses go beyond the basics—covering practical, legal, and safety essentials that keep you and others protected. For personalized assistance with driving courses, feel free to contact us at [email protected] or (780) 486 5090.
