“This is the second time in three weeks that we’ve had to message motorists to slow down,” said Sgt. Kerry Bates, of the EPS Traffic Safety Unit. “The roads may be somewhat quieter these days due to the people remaining at home during the pandemic, though that doesn’t give motorists additional liberties to ignore the posted speed limits.”
Edmonton Police Service Traffic Unit members have clocked drivers racing around the city at excessive speeds of 151 km/hr in a 80 km/hr zone, 141 km/hr in a posted 80 km/hr zone, 123 km/h in a 50 km/h zone, 181 km/h in a posted 100 km/h zone – even 200 km/h on the Anthony Henday last week.
With warmer temperatures now here, motorcycles are also starting to appear on city roads, increasing the risk of collisions, injuries or even deaths.
“Some people are obviously feeling the effects of cabin fever having been cooped up at home for the last several weeks,” explained Sgt. Bates. “We get it, though regardless, you’re creating a lot of unnecessary risk for yourselves and those on the roads around you when you decide to drive with reckless abandon. It’s not acceptable, and you’re exposing yourself to a hefty fine, at a time when many people are facing difficult financial pressures at home.”
Bates added: “To be frank, it’s selfish to say the very least, to potentially cause an unnecessary collision that could further increase the pressure our hospitals and front-line healthcare professionals are currently under, as a result of the COVID-19 virus.”
The EPS is stepping up its traffic enforcement efforts to address this ongoing trend, which is occurring with lower traffic volumes on city roadways. Violations for speeding can include fines of up to $2,000 and up to 6 demerits, depending on how fast the driver was travelling. Those found to be exceeding the speed limit by 51 km/h or more may face a driver’s licence suspension.