The Alberta RCMP is asking drivers to slow down. (Photo: Pattison Media)

By David Opinko

Alberta RCMP issued 761 violations for excessive speeding in 2023

Apr 10, 2024 | 3:29 PM

The RCMP is asking motorists to hit the brakes.

In 2023, officers issued more than 60,000 speeding tickets in Alberta, including 761 for excessive speeding.

Excessive speeding is when a driver travels at least 50 kilometres per hour above the posted speed limit.

Alberta RCMP Traffic Sgt. Darrin Turbull says April is typically the month with the highest number of speeding offences. Last April, members handed out 93 violations for excessive speeding.

“April is the start of “speeding season.” Excessive speed shows a pattern that has a relationship to clear roads, good weather, and typically occurring at peak travel times for families,” says Turnbull. “Sadly, speeding is a common traffic violation among drivers, and one of the most threatening to traffic safety.”

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The RCMP provided the following tips to stay safe on the roads:

• Leave early – don’t rush. Unsafe speeds increase the risk of collision and serious injury. Allowing yourself extra time to get to your destination helps you to avoid feeling rushed.
• Respect posted speed limits, especially in school or playground and construction zones. These areas often have high pedestrian traffic – you must slow down.
• Speeding isn’t just driving beyond posted legal speed limits, but also driving too fast for weather, road, and traffic conditions.
• If you are a passenger in a speeding vehicle, speak up. Take your life out of the driver’s hands.