New drivers, motorcyclists target of June’s Sask. traffic blitz

REGINA – The latest traffic safety blitz in Saskatchewan will be targeting new drivers. Police will also be focusing on new motorcyclists throughout June.

Police will be watching out for new drivers who are not following the graduated driver’s licensing (GDL) and the motorcycle graduated driver’s licensing (MGDL) restrictions.

Both programs apply to all new drivers regardless of age.

“The nine-month learner stage is not just to prepare the new driver to pass a road test – it’s to prepare them to be a safe driver and stay alive on the road,” said Ken Claffey, the driver education manager for Saskatoon Public Schools.

There are three stages in the GDL to help new drivers move into higher risk driving situations: learner, novice one and novice two. Each stage has the following restrictions:

• no cellphone use while driving, including hands-free;
• passengers are limited to the number of seatbelts;
• the supervising driver cannot be another driver in the GDL program; and
• unable to obtain a commercial driver’s license.

READ MORE: What you need to know about new Saskatchewan traffic laws

In 2014, the Saskatchewan government introduced new restrictions to the MGDL program:

• must wear protective gear;
• must display a red learner “L” or green novice “N” placard; and
• there may be engine size restrictions.

READ MORE: Keeping motorcyclists safe on Saskatchewan roads

Both programs also have a zero drug and alcohol tolerance regardless of age. A first offence carries a 60-day roadside suspension along with the vehicle being impounded for three days.

Claffey has a tip for experienced drivers to help new drivers move through the stages.

“Your number one job is to pay attention to what’s happening and to coach and correct the new driver,” said Claffey.

“They need to be prepared to handle any situation for when they no longer have you by their side. Are they ready to drive without you? Are you ready for that?”

Claffey also suggests giving new drivers as much time behind the wheel as possible and for supervising drivers to “hang up, buckle up and follow the rules of the road.”