As many drivers hit the road this Victoria Day long weekend, Manitoba Public Insurance is urging all Manitobans to slow down to avoid collisions – and potentially deadly consequences.

According to MPI data, speed is a contributing factor in more than one in five, or 21 per cent, of all fatal collisions that happen in Manitoba. While speeding is typically considered to be driving above the speed limit, it also applies when you drive too fast for weather, road or traffic conditions.

Additionally, a recent study completed by the Corporation found that during the summer months (May to September), approximately 13 per cent of vehicles travel at excessive speeds on highways throughout the province.

“We know May long weekend means the unofficial kickoff of summer for many Manitobans. While everyone wants to start the celebration at their cottage, lake or campsite with family and friends as soon as possible, speeding puts you and others on road at a higher risk for a serious collision,” said Satvir Jatana, MPI’s Chief Customer Officer.

Speed kills – and costs

The most tragic results of driving at high speeds can be collisions that lead to fatalities or injuries. Each year in Manitoba, an average of 17 people are killed because of speeding.

Drivers who choose this high-risk behaviour may also face other serious consequences, including:

  • Fines ranging from $181 to $1,620. Fines are doubled in construction zones.
  • Moving down levels on the Driver Safety Rating scale – increasing the cost of their driver’s licence and vehicle premiums.
  • Serious Offence Notices, and potential licence suspensions, which can be issued for speeding infractions of 50 km/h or more over the posted limit.

Tips to manage your speed

Follow these road safety tips to keep your speed in check this Victoria Day long weekend and throughout the summer:

  • Plan your route and give yourself enough time to safely reach your destination.
  • Use cruise control to avoid inadvertently going over the speed limit.
  • Maintain a safe following distance, which means a four-second distance in ideal driving conditions.
  • Remember when passing by a roadside emergency vehicle, you must move to the farthest lane from the scene whenever possible. In this situation, drivers also are required to slow down to 40 km/h when the posted speed limit is below 79 km/h or 60 km/h when the posted speed limit is 80 km/h or higher