REGINA – The government has come through on a promise to increase fines in construction zones.
Starting Nov. 1, those fines will triple, making them among the highest in the country.
The base fine will be $210, with the per kilometer fine increasing to three dollars for every km/h over 60 km/h for speeds up to 90 km/h.
Those caught doing more than 90 km/h will see the per kilometre fine increased to six dollars for every km/h over the limit.
That means drivers caught going 10 km/h over the speed limit in Orange Zones will face a fine of $300, and those doing 40 km/h over the limit will be fined $530.
“The RCMP dedicated Traffic Unit has written over 415 tickets for speeding in a construction zone throughout the past two months,” said Sgt. Paul Dawson from RCMP “F” Division.
“Our message for those traveling in the Orange Zone is it shouldn’t take a ticket to make you slow down and save lives.”
Other measures are also being put into place by the Ministry of Highways and Infrastructure in an effort to get drivers to slow down in construction zones.
Rumble strips will be used in prioritized work zones and gates to narrow the approach to construction zones will be installed.
Both measures are designed to slow traffic to 60 km/h and its effectiveness will be reviewed prior to the 2013 construction season.
Photo radar will also be in place for 2013.
“Our government is proud to announce new measures designed to move forward on safety improvements in the Orange Zone for both construction workers and motorists,” said Don McMorris, Minister of Highways and Infrastructure.
The government announced measures would be taken to get drivers to slow down in highway construction zones after the death of 18-year-old flag person Ashley Richards in August.
Richards was hit by a speeding driver from Regina on Highway 39 in late August.
The driver, 44-year-old Ken Dunford, has been charged with criminal negligence causing death and dangerous operation of a motor vehicle causing death.
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