Saskatchewan motorists will now see tougher penalties for drinking and driving, expanded photo radar for speed control and increased awareness of the dangers of distracted driving.
Following the release of the report from the Special Committee on Traffic Safety, the Government of Saskatchewan will be moving forward immediately on more than half of the recommendations made.
It was recommended to implement a zero drug and alcohol tolerance for all drivers under 19 years of age, and for all drivers in the Graduated Driver's Licencing (GDL) program and Motorcycle GDL program.
Also, immediate 60-day roadside licence suspension and three-day vehicle impoundment with any blood alcohol content (BAC) under .08 for drivers under 19 years of age, and all drivers in any GDL program as well as immediate licence suspension up to court disposition and a 30-day roadside vehicle impoundment for a first offence for all drivers with a BAC of .08 to .15, or those who refuse a test. The government will introduce mandatory ignition interlock for high BAC offenders.
A two-year photo radar pilot project at high-risk locations and in school zones will be implemented with increasing financial penalties for drivers caught going more than 35 km/h over the speed limit.
The government also will move forward on making booster seats mandatory for children under the age of seven, and less than 145 cm (4'9") in height and 36 kg (80 lbs) in weight.
"Last year in the province, 184 people were killed on our roads and highways," Minister responsible for SGI Donna Harpauer said. "This traffic safety action plan aims to address this issue, as well as other traffic safety concerns, with the goal of reducing deaths and injuries on Saskatchewan roads. We are hopeful these initiatives will have an immediate impact on driving behaviour, so we can all benefit from improved traffic safety in the province."
