BONNYVILLE - Last year, in the Bonnyville RCMP detachment jurisdiction, over 500 tickets were issued for speeding, and local police would like to remind motorists to take steps to avoid the temptation of speeding.
“Our rural roadways have enough potential hazards without adding the dangers involved with speeding," says Staff Sgt. Sarah Park.
Rural roads present unique risks, including livestock and wildlife that could be on the road, along with unmarked intersections and blind curves. Different road surfaces - and sometimes poor surfaces - are also an added danger when driving fast.
"These roads require safe speeds and the full attention of motorists," according to RCMP.
To avoid the temptation of speeding, RCMP recommend motorists ensure they have enough travel time to get to their destination, they limit distractions while driving, and are aware of posted limits in all areas - including playground and construction zones.
Unless otherwise posted, the following speed limits apply in Alberta:
- 100 km/h on a provincial highway located outside an urban area.
- 80 km/h on a provincial highway located inside a corporate limit of a city.
- 80 km/h on a roadway that is located outside an urban area.
- 50 km/h on a roadway that is located within an urban area, unless otherwise posted.
Speeding fines and demerits
- Exceed speed limit up to 15 km/h over – 2 demerits and up to $126 fine
- Exceed speed limit by 16 to 30 km/h – 3 demerits and up to $249 fine
- Exceed speed limit by 31 to 50 km/h – 4 demerits and up to $495 fine
"Fine amounts double when construction workers or emergency responders are present."
