Traffic Safety Takes Priority
One fatality is too many. With the knowledge 184 people lost their lives on our roads and highways last year, it was clear that we needed to take action. The safety of all Saskatchewan people is paramount and that is why our government is immediately moving forward with more than half of the recommendations included in a report from the special committee on Traffic Safety.
Our plan includes tougher penalties for drinking and driving, expanded photo radar for speed control, and increasing awareness of the dangers of distracted driving. High-lights include zero drug and alcohol tolerance for all drivers under the age of 19 as well as all drivers in the Graduated Driver’s Licensing (GDL) program and Motorcycle GDL program; immediate 60-day roadside license suspension and three-day vehicle impoundment with any Blood Alcohol Con-tent (BAC) under .08 for drivers under 19 years of age, and all drivers in any GDL pro-gram; immediate license suspension up to court disposition and a 30-day roadside vehicle impoundment for a first offense for all drivers with a BAC of .08 to .15, or those who refuse a test and introducing mandatory ignition interlock for high BAC offenders.
We are also implementing a two-year photo radar pilot project at high-risk locations and in school zones, increasing financial penalties for drivers caught going more than 35 km/h over the speed limit; and 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. Ultimately, our goal is to reduce deaths and in-juries that occur on Saskatchewan roads and it is our hope that these initiatives will have an immediate impact on driving behavior so that we all benefit from improved traffic safety throughout our province.
Seniors Care Pilot Projects Underway