2009 news releases

For major announcements, decisions, projects or campaigns, SGI circulates news releases to Saskatchewan media.

SGI sends message to high-risk drivers

Feb. 27, 2009

SGI is furthering its commitment to making Saskatchewan roads safer through a policy change to the Safe Driver Recognition program.

Effective March 1, 2009, the financial penalty for any Criminal Code driving-related offence resulting in injury or death is increasing 400 per cent, from $500 to $2,500. Drivers convicted of these offences will continue to be subject to all other sanctions associated with Criminal Code convictions.

"Saskatchewan has some of the strongest road safety programs and legislation in the country," Crown Corporations Minister Ken Cheveldayoff said. "This policy change supports the government's stand that risky driver behaviour, like street racing, is not acceptable in Saskatchewan and will not be tolerated."

Prior to this policy change, the financial penalty was the same for every driving-related Criminal Code offence, even when the result was injury or death. To help deter unsafe driving behaviour that leads to injury or death, SGI increased the financial penalty for these specific offences.

"SGI is pleased to introduce a policy change that increases the consequences and, ultimately, helps deter the occurrence of high-risk driving behaviour in our province," SGI acting President and CEO Earl Cameron said. "We remain committed to keeping people in our communities and on our roads safe."

Visit our Safe Driver Recognition program for additional information.