Transportation and Public Works Minister Gail Shea today tabled a bill in the Legislature which will enhance government efforts to improve safety on Island roads.
"These measures which I've tabled today have been developed in response to concerns from citizens, groups and communities. It's my hope that these initiatives will build upon ongoing efforts by my department, including stepped-up Highway Safety patrols and public education which, along with the efforts of Islanders, will help make Island roads as safe as possible," said Transportation and Public Works Minister Gail Shea in announcing the proposed measures.
An Act to Amend the Highway Traffic Act, tabled today, includes a number of provisions aimed at increasing general road safety including the following:
• The mandatory wearing of bicycle safety helmets.
• Increasing the fine structure for passing school buses from their current levels to a minimum of $500 and a maximum of $5,000.
• Inclusion of amber lights on snow equipment and garbage trucks.
• Increased authority for peace officers to prevent unsafe vehicles from operating.
• Expand the period from 5 to 10 years that driving licenses records can be reviewed for possible suspension for multiple impaired driving offences.
• Impoundment of vehicles of repeat offenders who drive with a suspended license.
Shea advised that department staff are also reviewing regulations to increase demerit point penalties for motorists who pass school buses. "I want to remind motorists that school buses carry perhaps the most precious cargo on the road, our children, so please use caution when approaching school buses."
Upon adoption, Prince Edward Island will become only the sixth province to have mandatory bicycle helmet legislation (joining Alberta, BC, Ontario, New Brunswick, and Nova Scotia) and only the third to have it apply to all citizens.