2012 news releases

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

Operation Hang Up, Buckle Up, Gear Up

June 19, 2012

On June 20 and 21, law enforcement across the province will again be targeting two main traffic safety concerns - seatbelt use and using cellphones while driving - in addition to motorcycle safety.

“We know lack of seatbelt use and distracted driving are two major factors for fatalities and collisions on our roads, so it makes sense to again focus on those issues,” said Andrew Cartmell, President and CEO of SGI. “However, as a follow up to Motorcycle Safety Week in May, we want to again remind motorists the importance of sharing the road with motorcycles, as well as remind motorcyclists the importance of proper gear and the benefits of training.”

Last year in Saskatchewan there were 289 collisions involving motorcycles, resulting in 205 injuries and four fatalities.

“Some motorists aren't getting the message about the dangers of cellphone use while driving, in spite of recent, tragic collisions, attributed to distracted driving,” said Regina Police Chief Troy Hagen, on behalf of the Saskatchewan Association of Chiefs of Police. “With summer's approach and a higher volume of traffic, including motorcycles, on our roadways, we all need to be more attentive drivers. Drive as if your life depended on it - because it does.”

More than 1,300 tickets were issued during May's impaired driving traffic safety blitz, Operation Overdrive, more than 100 of which were for alcohol-related offences.

About SGI

Saskatchewan Government Insurance (SGI) is the province's self-sustaining auto insurance fund. SGI operates 21 claims centres and five salvage centres across Saskatchewan with a head office in Regina. SGI also works with a network of over 400 motor licence issuers across the province. Customers can now do some transactions online. Look for the MySGI link under Online Services on your motor licence issuer's website or SGI's website.