[undercoverbrother]

Originally Posted by polak

Also, why are we allowed, No, TOLD to pull over and do all of these things on the side of the road?

Surely it's FAAAAAR more likely that you are hit by an out of control car on the side of a busy road than you are when your 3 cars back at a red light?

Actually, you not are allowed to pull over on the side of the road to text/email.

1. Can I park on the shoulder of a highway to make a call?
   On provincial highways, outside of an urban area, section 43 of the Use of Highway and Rules of the Road Regulation applies and vehicles are not permitted to park on the shoulder of a provincial highway except in an emergency. This is also for safety. If you have to make a phone call, do so at a rest area, or when you stop for gas or for a bathroom break. Alternately, have your passenger make the call.
   Provincial highways are typically numbered roadways (e.g., Highway 2), but they may also be known by other names (e.g., Queen Elizabeth II or the Trans-Canada Highway).
   Municipal parking bylaws vary from place to place. You will need to consider the parking bylaws for that area before pulling over.
2. Can I send a text message or comb my hair when I am stopped at a red light?
   No. You cannot engage in distracting activities when stopped at a red light, delayed in traffic or waiting for a train. You are still driving and engaged in a traffic situation. To be compliant with the law drivers need to be legally parked before engaging in the restricted activities.

http://www.transportation.alberta.ca...teddriving.htm