DRIVERS URGED TO SLOW FOR WORKERS, EVEN IN UNMARKED ZONES

As we enter the last half of a busy construction season, the City of Saskatoon and Saskatoon Police Service would like to remind drivers to slow down when passing construction workers or vehicles even when signage is not present.

“We’ve been hearing reports of better speed compliance in marked work zones this year but, as the Traffic Safety Act regulates, drivers must also slow to 60 km/h when passing any road worker, flag person or construction vehicle with flashing orange lights,” says Angela Gardiner, Director of Transportation. “When workers don’t have to worry about their safety they can better focus on the job, allowing them to complete their work faster and more efficiently."

The Saskatoon Police Service enforces the Traffic Bylaw and the provincial Traffic Safety Act and fines start at $210.  Workers also report violators to Police which has resulted in charges being laid.

“Given the dangers, the Saskatoon Police Service has a zero tolerance approach to enforcing speed limits in work zones and when passing workers,” says Staff Sgt. Tony Nadon. “Our officers have been paying close attention to these areas in an effort to encourage drivers to obey traffic laws.”

Gardiner also wishes to remind drivers of the importance of reducing speed in areas where signage is in place but there are no vehicles or workers present. According to the City’s Traffic Control Manual, speed reduction signs may be set up two kilometers in advance of the work starting on high speed roads; this is to provide drivers with enough time to respond to the conditions at hand.

“We understand the frustration of travelling through a marked work zone when construction may appear halted or complete. However, barriers will stay in place where the road is hazardous to drivers or where pavement or concrete needs to set,” says Gardiner.

Slow down, pay attention and respect work zones. Watch for pedestrians and work crews, and for everyone’s safety, please obey all detours, signs and barriers.

Know before you go! Find traffic detour information on our website at www.saskatoon.ca/go/traffic. You can also follow us on Twitter @cityofsaskatoon and with #betterroadsYXE and like Saskatoon City News on Facebook.

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