Last year, RCMP Cpl. Chris Blandford and Sheriff Sgt. Rick Manasterski of the Bow Valley Integrated Traffic Unit promised aggressive speed enforcement would take place throughout the Bow Valley Region.
As a result, 10,229 drivers have been charged with speeding. This represents an increase of 2,300 more drivers being charged in 2013 than 2012. Calgary residents represented 32 per cent of those charged, followed by B.C. residents at 25 per cent.
Members of the Bow Valley Integrated Traffic Unit (BVITU) will continue aggressive speed enforcement activities in 2014. Members will employ a variety of strategies to curtail speeding and aggressive driving in the Bow Valley Region which will include, but not be limited to, static and roving patrols, LASER speed operations and aircraft patrols.
In all, 599 motorists were found traveling 50 km/h or greater over the speed limit, with the top three being at 212, 205 and 180 km/h. There were 440 in the 50 to 59 km/h range; 117 at 60 to 69 km/h and 32 at the 70-plus km/h over the speed limit.
In all, 201 Calgary residents were found travelling 50 km/h or greater over the speed limit. B.C. residents were next at 154. Thirteen Bow Valley residents were found traveling 50 km/h or greater over the speed limit. Traveling at these speeds will result in an automatic court appearance.
Many of the drivers who found themselves in this situation received hefty fines and lengthy driver’s license suspensions. Ultimately the greatest cost will be experienced in a collision where at these speeds, death and serious injury are very likely.
Members of the BVITU will also continue to direct enforcement efforts at reducing the incidents of impaired driving and distracted driving. They will also continue to enforce Alberta’s seat belt laws.
BVITU would ask all motorists to obey all speed limits, drive according to conditions, refrain from using cell phones or other electronic devices while driving, wear seat belts and whenever drinking, find an alternate way home, such as a taxi, a sober friend or a designated driver.
