RCMP warn on dangers of speed

By Lori Larsen
Posted speed limits in Alberta represent the maximum speed for that road in ideal driving conditions and are established to ensure safety of all those travelling on those roadways.

Bashaw RCMP provide the following information on the speed limits applicable in Alberta:

  • 100 km/h on a provincial highway located outside an urban area (unless otherwise posted.)
  • 80 km/h on a provincial highway located inside a corporate limit of a city (unless otherwise posted.)
  • 80 km/h on a roadway that is located outside an urban area(unless otherwise posted.)
  • 50 km/h on a roadway that is located within an urban area, (unless otherwise posted.)
Speeding fines and demerits range in severity and fine amounts double when construction workers or emergency responders are present. “Rural roads present unique risks including livestock and wildlife, unmarked intersections and blind curves, as well as varying and sometimes poor surfaces,” noted Bashaw RCMP detachment Sergeant Trent Cleveland.  “These roads require safe speeds and the full attention of motorists.”

The following represents recent statistics regarding speeding infractions and subsequent fines for the Bashaw detachment.

  • Exceed speed limit up to 15 km/h over–two demerits and up to $126 fine.
  • Exceed speed limit by 16 to 30 km/h–three demerits and up to $249 fine.
  • Exceed speed limit by 31 to 50 km/h–four demerits and up to $495 fine.
Bashaw RCMP recommends giving yourself enough travel time, limiting distractions and being aware of posted limits.