Following a series of tragic accidents on Quebec's roads over the last few months, the Minister of Transport, Ms. Julie Boulet, has just announced modifications to the Highway Safety Code -- pending Parliament approval.
The modifications concern the following issues:
Speeding
The government plans on introducing tougher penalties for major speeding offences and repeat offences. The idea is to double the amount of the fine and the number of demerit points when a driver significantly exceeds the speed limit.
Drinking and driving
According to the Ministry of Transport, about 30 percent of drivers who died following the injuries suffered in a crash had a higher blood alcohol level than the normal limit. The government therefore wants tougher penalties for repeat offenders and a 24-hour suspension of the driver's licence for blood alcohol levels between 0.05 and 0.08.
Photographic radars and cameras at stoplights
Pilot projects on photographic radars and stoplight cameras will be implemented. Initially, 15 sites will be controlled with these technologies. Warning signs will inform drivers of their presence. The goal is not to trap drivers but rather to save lives.
Cell phones
Using a cell phone while driving represents a major distraction which considerably increases the risk of getting into an accident. Ms. Boulet is therefore proposing to prohibit the use of a cell phone (handset) while driving a moving vehicle. Offenders could lose up to 3 demerit points and receive a fine of up to $100.
Speed limiters
Heavy vehicles absolutely must not exceed the speed limit in many circumstances. In order to address this issue, the government is serious about amending the Highway Safety Code to make the activation of speed limiters mandatory on all heavy vehicles and adjust the maximum speed of these vehicles to 105 km/h.
Gradual access to a driver's licence
Finally, Quebec is recommending stronger rules for a gradual access to driving, such as making driving lessons mandatory for all beginners, extending the probationary licence to people age 25 and over, and introducing a gradual number of demerit points for drivers under age 25.
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The modifications concern the following issues:
Speeding
The government plans on introducing tougher penalties for major speeding offences and repeat offences. The idea is to double the amount of the fine and the number of demerit points when a driver significantly exceeds the speed limit.
Drinking and driving
According to the Ministry of Transport, about 30 percent of drivers who died following the injuries suffered in a crash had a higher blood alcohol level than the normal limit. The government therefore wants tougher penalties for repeat offenders and a 24-hour suspension of the driver's licence for blood alcohol levels between 0.05 and 0.08.
Photographic radars and cameras at stoplights
Pilot projects on photographic radars and stoplight cameras will be implemented. Initially, 15 sites will be controlled with these technologies. Warning signs will inform drivers of their presence. The goal is not to trap drivers but rather to save lives.
Cell phones
Using a cell phone while driving represents a major distraction which considerably increases the risk of getting into an accident. Ms. Boulet is therefore proposing to prohibit the use of a cell phone (handset) while driving a moving vehicle. Offenders could lose up to 3 demerit points and receive a fine of up to $100.
Speed limiters
Heavy vehicles absolutely must not exceed the speed limit in many circumstances. In order to address this issue, the government is serious about amending the Highway Safety Code to make the activation of speed limiters mandatory on all heavy vehicles and adjust the maximum speed of these vehicles to 105 km/h.
Gradual access to a driver's licence
Finally, Quebec is recommending stronger rules for a gradual access to driving, such as making driving lessons mandatory for all beginners, extending the probationary licence to people age 25 and over, and introducing a gradual number of demerit points for drivers under age 25.