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Triple speed limit

Red Deer motorists being reminded of dangers of excessive speeding after multiple incidents

Jul 25, 2023 | 4:31 PM

Red Deer motorists are being reminded to follow posted speed limits, particularly in construction and playground zones, after a number of excessive speeding incidents in recent weeks.

On July 14, officials say a City of Red Deer Peace Officer observed a motorcyclist rapidly accelerating on 55 Street, reaching 126 km/h in a 60 km/h zone.

While conducting the traffic stop, the Peace Officer discovered that the driver only had a Class 5 license and was not qualified to operate a motorcycle.

The 20-year-old Red Deer resident was issued a court summons for the speeding violation, and received an additional $324 fine for operating a motor vehicle of unauthorized class. A court summons is automatically required in cases where a motorist exceeds the posted speed limit by more than 50 km/h.

“Fatal collisions often involve drivers excessive speeds, and in this case the offence took place near residential areas and passed multiple intersections. Excessive speeding of this nature puts the driver as well as other members of the public in severe danger,” said Peter Puszka, Superintendent of The City’s Municipal Policing Services.

In another recent incident, Red Deer RCMP’s Traffic Services Unit observed a male motorcyclist driving 92 km/h in a 30 km/h construction zone.

This motorist was also charged and issued a summons to appear in court. The penalty may include a fine in the thousands of dollars, six months in jail, or both, as well as six demerit points and a suspended license.

City Peace Officers and Red Deer RCMP say they would like to remind motorist that speed fines double in construction zones, and that when signage is present, motorist must adhere to that speed limit. They confirm residents can expect to continue seeing enhanced enforcement during the summer months, and throughout the rest of the year.