NB 1333
Oct. 16, 2007
FREDERICTON (CNB) - Don't speed in construction and school zones in New Brunswick. If you do, you could face a minimum fine of $280.
The stiffer fines are part of government's plan to improve highway safety in New Brunswick, and were as included in amendments to the Motor Vehicle Act that were passed during the last session of the Legislative Assembly. The new fines take effect as of Oct. 15.
"By making these improvements to the Motor Vehicle Act, we will help to reduce the number of deaths and serious injuries on our highways," Public Safety Minister and Solicitor General John Foran said.
Drivers who speed in a clearly marked school zone between the hours of 7:30 a.m. and 4 p.m. will face the increased fine. Designated school zones will be marked with chartreuse (green) school zone signs.
"Making sure our children travel to and from school safely is of great importance," Education Minister Kelly Lamrock said. "Motorists should always exercise caution when driving near schools, and by increasing the fine for speeding within school zones, our children will have even more protection around their school yard."
Exceeding the speed limit in construction zones when workers are present could also result in a minimum fine of $280. In urban areas, the speed limit in a construction zone is 50 km/hr unless otherwise posted. In other areas, it is 80 km/hr unless otherwise posted. The start and end of the construction zone will be marked with orange signs.
About one quarter of New Brunswickers admit to speeding in the 150 construction zones established on the province's roads on any summer day.
"The Department of Transportation takes the safety of its employees and all highway construction workers very seriously," Transportation Minister Denis Landry said. "I was very pleased to support this legislation when it was introduced, and my department will continue to work with the Partners for Safe Highway Construction to improve safety in highway work zones."
For more information on construction zone safety, visit the Department of Transportation's website at: http://www.gnb.ca/Roads.
07/10/16
MEDIA CONTACTS: Patricia Hyland, director of communications, Public Safety, 506-444-4430; Tracey Burkhardt, director of communications, Transportation, 506-453-5634; Jason Humphrey or Angélique Binet, communications, Education, 506-444-4714.
07/10/16