Driving the Speed Limit

Obey the maximum speed limit posted on signs along our roads and highways, but always drive at a speed that will let you stop safely. As a general rule, drive at the same speed as traffic around you without going over the speed limit.

In cities, towns, villages and built-up areas where there are no posted speed limit signs, the maximum speed is 50 km/h. Elsewhere the maximum speed limit is 80 km/h.

Remember the following when driving:

• Lower your speed in bad weather, in heavy traffic or in a construction zone;
• Slow down when driving at night, especially on unlit roads;
• Follow at a safe distance, at least two seconds behind the vehicle in front of you.

If you are charged for speeding at 50 km/h over the speed limit, police will suspend your licence and impound your vehicle at the roadside.

Penalties for street racing, stunt driving and driving 50 km/h or over the speed limit

Pre-conviction – Immediate 7-day licence suspension and 7-day vehicle impoundment

Upon conviction - $2,000 to $10,000 fine, 6 demerit points, up to 6 months jail, up to 2 years licence suspension for a first conviction

Second offence – Driver licence suspension up to 10 years within 10 years of first conviction

The following demerit point pen alties are assigned to a driver convicted of a speed-related offence. Remember, if you collect enough demerit points, you can lose your driver's licence.

3 points for exceeding the speed limit by 16 to 29 km/h

4 points for exceeding the speed limit by 30 to 49 km/h

6 points for exceeding the speed limit by 50 km/h or more

Keep in mind to be extra careful when driving through areas where people are working on or near the road. Slow down when approaching work zones and be prepared to stop. Obey all signs and any workers who are directing traffic through the area.

Be patient if traffic is delayed. If your lane is blocked and no one is directing traffic, yield to the driver coming from the opposite direction. When the way is clear, move slowly and carefully around the obstacle.

Road Safety. It starts with you.