The Prince Edward Island RCMP conducted traffic enforcement across the Island, resulting in 145 traffic violations being issued during National Road Safety Week, May 14 – 22.
Police conducted traffic operations targeting proper use of seatbelts, speeding, distracted driving and impaired driving. The operation was led by the RCMP's Provincial Priority Unit (PPU), and included several checkpoints. One checkpoint with MADD was also conducted on May 21 in Kings District, as part of National Impaired Driving Enforcement Day.
In total, 145 charges were issued under the Highway Traffic Act, including 81 tickets for speeding and two tickets for not wearing a seatbelt. Furthermore, 62 tickets for various infractions were issued, including having expired documentation and failure to provide proper documentation. Police issued two roadside suspensions, charged seven people for driving while suspended, and arrested three impaired drivers – two by alcohol and one by drugs. A number of warnings were also issued.
"We want to help keep Islanders safe behind the wheel by focusing our efforts on proper use of seatbelts, speeding, distracted driving and impaired driving. These are the major factors that contribute to serious and fatal collisions" said Sgt. Chris Gunn with the PEI RCMP. "We use our checkpoints as a way to interact with the public, and to highlight vehicle safety concerns."
The RCMP's PPU conducts regular, targeted traffic enforcement on roadways throughout the province with the goals of improving road safety, educating motorists about the rules, and to reduce serious injury and fatal collisions.