Local Mounties have been pulling dozens of cars off the road over the last month as they target excessive speeders on the new stretch of highway north of Lake Country.
Twenty-six drivers, ranging in ages from 17 to 78, have been handed violation tickets for excessive speeding over the past month.
One driver was even caught travelling more than 70 km/h over the posted 100 km/h speed limit.
“The numbers are concerning to us because it seems that some motorists are essentially trying to shave a few minutes off their drive, when in fact they’re jeopardizing the safety of those around them,” said Kelowna RCMP Const. Kris Clark.
Fifteen of the speeders were travelling 50 to 60 km/h over the speed limit, while five drivers were caught going between 60 and 70 km/h too fast.
Excessive speeding carries a fine of $368 to $483, as well as a mandatory minimum seven-day impound.
According to Clark, the area was patrolled by officers from both Central Okanagan Traffic Services and the Integrated Road Safety Unit.
“When they come forward with numbers like this, then obviously there is a level of concern coming from them. They deal with traffic enforcement 24/7—that’s their job and their mandate.”
Clark said police will continue to keep a close eye on how fast vehicles are going on that segment of highway.
“It’s a well-built stretch. There’s really no concern about the highway itself, it’s just the behaviours we’re seeing on it,” said Clark.
“Those behaviours need to be changed.”
wpaterson@kelownacapnews.com
Twitter: @PatersonWade
