The Thompson RCMP wish to remind motorists that driving is not a right, it is a privilege. Over the past several weeks the RCMP have noticed an increase in declining driving habits. There are traffic laws to ensure everyone’s safety as well as pedestrians, and cyclists.
Cst. Sandy Deibert advises that “traffic enforcement will continue in the City of Thompson and I encourage everyone to ensure that their vehicles are registered, driver’s licences are current and carried with you”. As well, ensure your vehicle is working properly including tires, brakes, lights and vehicles should be checked on a regular basis.
Several other driving issues that the Thompson RCMP would like to remind motorists of include passing a stopped school bus with their lights flashing. The flashing lights indicate that children are loading or unloading. If you pass a school bus you risk the safety of those children and you could receive a ticket either as the driver or the registered owner of the offending vehicle in the amount of $672.00.
Another reminder to drivers that as of Sept 1st, 2020, all elementary schools in the city of Thompson have school zones that require motorists to reduce their speed to 30km/hour. This is in effect Monday to Friday from 8AM to 5PM until June 30th, 2021. While there is no requirement to reduce your speed on Thompson Drive North in front of RD Parker Collegiate, be mindful that there are 3 pedestrian crosswalks as well as vehicles entering and exiting the drop off loop in front of the school.
Failing to stop at stop signs is another concern of the Thompson RCMP. Stop signs are a traffic control device that helps to control traffic. You must stop the forward momentum of your vehicle when approaching a stop sign. Whether there is traffic coming or not is not a factor that should determine if you need to stop or not. Disobeying a traffic control device such as a stop sign not only puts yourself and others in harm’s way, but could cost you $203.00.
And finally, operating a vehicle while holding an electronic device is against the law. It will cost you $672 and a 3 day licence suspension. This is not a new law, however, the consequences have changed and are now much more serious.
As the topics discussed are not an exhaustive list of driving related concerns, they are ones that need to be highlighted. Speeding and failing to wear seatbelts both continue to be concerns province-wide.
