April will again see Alberta RCMP and their road safety partners enhancing enforcement efforts to reduce the harm caused by motorists disobeying speed limits throughout Alberta.
The ultimate goal of April’s speed enforcement campaign is to increase the number of people obeying the speed limit on provincial roadways.
What does the maximum speed limit mean?
Posted speed limits are the maximum speeds permitted if conditions are favorable. Research and fatal collision investigations throughout the province have shown that three out of every 10 fatal crashes involves driving at a speed unsafe for the prevailing road conditions.
“This is about getting to your destination safely. Speed limits save lives every day, maybe today it’s yours or someone you care about,” said Rimbey RCMP Sgt. Mark Groves. “By the time you realize you’re going too fast, it may be too late. Remember the faster you go, the longer it takes to stop and the harder you hit.”
The RCMP is asking motorists to keep the following in mind before they head out onto Alberta roadways:
• The speed limit in both urban and rural school zones is 30 km/h and is in effect on school days from 8 a.m. to 9:30 a.m., 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. and 3 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.
• The speed limit in a playground zone is 30 km/h and is in effect from 8:30 a.m. to one hour after sunset.
• Motorists must slow to 60 km/h, or less if the posted speed is lower, when passing emergency vehicles or tow trucks stopped with their lights flashing. Fines for speeding in these areas will be double the regular amount.
• In construction zones, motorists must observe the posted speed. When workers are present, fines for speeding in these areas will be doubled.
Every day in Alberta RCMP members see evidence that shows driving too fast does not allow drivers enough time to react to traffic signals such as red lights or stop signs, or other potential hazards that may be present, like children darting into traffic.
By increasing public education and enforcement efforts the RCMP aims to make Alberta’s roadways safer for everyone.