Recently, RCMP Traffic Services conducted an analysis to record the speed/volume of traffic passing by while police officers conducted traffic stops on the Perimeter Highway in 100 km/hr speed zones. The following information was gathered:
- The majority (95%) of vehicles moved over/changed lanes.
- Less than 3% of vehicles slowed to 60 km/hr or under.
- 8% of vehicles slowed to a speed between 61 km/hr and 69 km/hr.
- Approximately 75% of vehicles slowed down to speeds between 70 & 99 km/hr.
- Over 14% of vehicles were traveling 100 km/hr or faster.
- 60% of vehicles that did slow down to 60 km/hr or less were Commercial Vehicles (i.e. transport trucks, construction vehicles).
On September 12, 2014, the Province of Manitoba announced a new amendment on the Highway traffic Act stating that drivers on either side of an undivided highway, who pass emergency vehicles and other designated vehicles that are stopped with their beacons flashing, must proceed with caution and pass only when safe to do so. Drivers traveling on multi-lane highways are also required to move to a lane farther from emergency vehicles.
All Drivers must slow to the following speeds:
- 40 km/hr on highways with posted maximum speed limits below 80 km/hr; and
- 60 km/hr on highways with posted maximum speed limits of 80 km/hr or greater.
RCMP would like to remind motorists that this amendment is to ensure the safety of all emergency vehicles, tow trucks and road side assistance vehicles, and vehicles operated by government enforcement officers with their beacons flashing.
