TOO FAST: Drivers near Vernon rack up big fines for being way over speed limit

VERNON – Police impounded four vehicles before and during the long-weekend for driving at excessive speed.

Vernon North Okanagan RCMP Const. Kelly Brett said the vehicles were impounded between Aug. 29 and Sept. 2 in Vernon and the surrounding area, costing drivers fines of $498 each.

One vehicle was travelling 120 km/h in a 60 km/h zone, while another was caught traveling 160 km/h in a 90 km/h zone. Brett said in addition to fines, each had their vehicles impounded for seven days as well as receiving three demerit points on their licence. They also faced other costs for towing and the seven days in the impound lot.

"We want people to be mindful of speed at all times," Brett said.

As a brand new school year begins the RCMP is reminding drivers to watch their speed in school zones or face hefty fines. The 30 km/h speed limit in school zones is in effect from 8 a.m. until 5 p.m. on school days. Fines for speeding in a school zone range from $196 to $253, plus three demerit points, and will be more if the speed is excessive.

According to an RCMP press release, 370 children are injured in crashes while walking, cycling or skateboarding, and six die each year throughout the province. Police are reminding drivers and students not to use electronic gadgets while driving and to concentrate on the road while driving or walking across the street.

The RCMP is asking drivers to make sure they drop off their children in a safe place where they can exit onto the sidewalk and not to stop in the travel portion of a school zone and rush their children out of the vehicle.

As school buses once again appear on the roads the RCMP is reminding drivers that they must stop when approaching a school bus from both directions if its lights are flashing. Failure to do so can result in a $368 fine plus three demerit points.

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