May 3, 2024
Cape Breton Regional Police caught 185 drivers speeding on CBRM roads in April, thorough targeted traffic enforcement for Aggressive Driving Awareness month.
Officers clocked speeds exceeding limits by 1-15 km/hour, 16-30 km/hour and more than 31 km/hr. Two drivers were also charged for Stunting, caught traveling at speeds nearing 140 km/hr in a 70 km/hour zone, which carries a fine of $2,442.50 for first time offenders, as well as six license demerit points and an immediate 7-day driver’s license suspension. A first offence for exceeding the speed limit by just 1-15 km/hr is $237.50. Police urge motorists to follow posted speed limits, which vary on different roadways throughout the CBRM and are set carefully for the safety of everyone using them. Driving too fast reduces your reaction time and can lead to other dangerous behaviours like tailgating, weaving in and out of traffic, and failing to yield to the right of way.
Officers issued another 121 Summary Offence Tickets for other driving violations, including Failing to Stop; Driving with a Revoked License; and Driving without Valid Insurance, Registration, Inspection or License. Two drivers were ticketed for Failing to Stop for a Stopped School Bus Exhibiting Flashing Red Lights.
May is Motorcycle Safety Month, and police will be paying extra attention to safe and responsible driving behaviours for motorcycles and off-road vehicles. If you own and operate an off-road vehicle, there are rules and regulations in place about where and how you can drive them: always remember to wear a helmet, drive only in designated areas and maintain a valid permit. Helmets are also mandatory for motorcycle drivers and motorcycles must be inspected, registered and insured.
Spring means more traffic, of all kinds: motorists – vehicles, motorcycles and ATVS – cyclists, pedestrians, children playing, pets and wildlife. Road safety is a shared responsibility, and police remind all road users to stay alert and choose safe habits.
