Traffic on the highways and grid roads is gradually picking up as people are heading out to enjoy their summer vacation. While there are more vehicles utilizing the roads during the summer months, construction crews are out completing roadwork before the cold weather settles too.

Due to the surge of activity expected on highways this summer, law enforcement and Saskatchewan Government Insurance (SGI) are taking the time to remind residents to follow traffic signs and driver safely near work zones.

A number of factors play a part in assuring both drivers and construction workers are safe in work areas along Saskatchewan's roads -- regardless of whether there are workers on-site or not.

Motorists may find it is alright to go faster than the work zone speed limit if there is no work being done at the time. But, there is a reason behind following the posted limit at all times.

"Remember to slow down to 60 km/h or according to the posted speed limit, even when no workers are present,” said David Marit, Minister for Highways and Infrastructure. “You may find it frustrating; however, if there is a reduced speed limit, it is usually because there are safety hazards present."

Work zone hazards include everything from lane reductions, sharp pavement drops, loose stones, or completed road work that needs time to dry and could be slippery at high speeds.

If motorists are caught exceeding speed limits near work zones, it could cost a pretty penny.

The basic fine for speeding through a highway construction zone when workers are present automatically triple compared to a regular ticket. Fines begin at $210 and only increase from there. Anything under 90 km/h will result in $3 per km/h over the limit. Speeds over 90 km/h turn into $6 for every km/h over the posted limit.

Drivers who are clocked at100 km/h in a work zone will receive a fine of $450, plus a victim surcharge of $80, for a grand total of $530.

In 2015, there were 229 collisions in work zones around the province, resulting in 68 injuries and three deaths.

 

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