**** RCMP Media Release
RCMP reminding motorists to keep in control by slowing down
The Nova Scotia RCMP is reminding motorists to keep in control by slowing down to ensure you and your passengers arrive safely at your destination.
In 2020, the Nova Scotia RCMP responded to 26 fatal and serious injury collisions that involved some form of aggressive driving (including speeding, stunting, unsafe passing and more). This is a reminder that not having full control of your vehicle can change lives in a split second.
“Speed and aggressive driving continues to be an issue in the province and police continue to conduct enforcement to protect road users and emergency responders on our roads and highways,” says Cpl. Mike Carter with Traffic Services. “There are many reasons that drivers choose to speed but none are worth the life-changing consequences.”
Speed and aggressive driving reduces the amount of time drivers have to react to unexpected hazards. It also puts drivers, passengers, other road users and emergency responders at increased risk of being in a serious or fatal motor vehicle collision. Police also want to remind motorists that when approaching an emergency vehicle with flashing lights, they are required to move to the left and slow down to 60 km/h if it is safe to do so.
In Nova Scotia, the fines for speeding are:
- $237.50 for exceeding the speed limit by one-15 km/h and two points on your license.
- $295 for exceeding the speed limit by 16-30 km/h, three points on your license and an immediate seven-day roadside license suspension.
- $410 for exceeding the speed limit by 31 km/h or more, four points on your license and an immediate seven-day roadside license suspension.
- $352.50 to $2,442.50for failing to slow down for an emergency vehicle.
Since 2019, the number of motorists charged with stunting is has been on the rise in Nova Scotia. Anyone driving a motor vehicle 50 Km/hr or more, over a speed limit, may be charged with stunting.
Stunting is defined as any person who operates a motor vehicle on a highway in a race or contest, while performing a stunt on a bet or wager. Anyone driving a motor vehicle 50 Km/hr or more, over a speed limit, may be charged with stunting. The fine for stunting is $2,422.50 for a first offence, six points on your license and an immediate seven day license suspension.
If you see dangerous driving, report it to police when it is safe to do so. It is helpful to include the location of the vehicle, a description of the driver and vehicle (including license plate number, colour, make and model) as well as the vehicle’s direction of travel.
