SLOW DOWN – SAVE LIVES

Motorists are once again reminded, in advance of the Victoria Day long weekend, to drive carefully and slow down to the posted speed limit of 60 km/h or less in construction Orange Zones or face substantial fines.

"During this busy season of road construction, motorists can expect to encounter Orange Zones across the province," Highways and Transportation Minister Eldon Lautermilch said. "By exercising care and caution when passing highway crews, we can all ensure a safe, productive construction season."

Motorists are alerted to Orange Zones by a diamond-shaped orange sign depicting an image of a highway worker. Upon entering the zone, a flag person may help direct traffic. Flashing light-boards with arrows may also be on site to assist motorists. Once through the Orange Zone, normal highway speed may be resumed.

Drivers who exceed 60 km/h when passing a highway worker or flag person face a base fine of $140 plus $2 per kilometre for each kilometre over the speed limit. If exceeding 90 km/h while passing a highway worker or flag person the penalty goes to $4 for each kilometre over 90 km/h. For example, if a violator is traveling at 100 km/h past a highway worker, they can expect to receive a ticket of $240 plus a victim's surcharge of $40. The victim's surcharge funds victim's services programming throughout Saskatchewan.

"Provincial highway workers and contractors are working hard to improve our transportation network," Lautermilch said. "Speeding or driving without caution in the Orange Zone can endanger their lives, and the lives of motorists themselves."

Last year in Saskatchewan, four people were killed and 83 were injured in traffic collisions during the May long weekend.

Motorists are encouraged to go to www.highways.gov.sk.ca or call the Highway Hotline for up-to-date information on road conditions, including construction and maintenance zones. To contact the Highway Hotline in Regina, call 787-7623; in Saskatoon, call 933-8333. For all other regions, call the toll free number a 1-888-335-7623 or dial *ROAD on the SaskTel cellular network.

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For More Information, Contact:

Doug Wakabayashi Highways and Transportation Regina Phone: (306) 787-4804