SGI reminds drivers to slow to 60 near flashing lights

REGINA – SGI is reminding drivers to slow to 60 km/h when passing emergency and service vehicles stopped at the side of the road with their lights flashing.

The reminder is the focus of the June Traffic Safety Spotlight, which urges drivers to be alert and share the road.

In 2024, there were 124 collisions involving ambulance, police or fire vehicles in Saskatchewan. The crashes caused 22 injuries and one death. SGI says these incidents are preventable when drivers stay alert, slow down and share the road.

"Whether it's a collision, medical crisis, flat tire, or any other reason a driver is stranded or injured, these are the helpers coming to their rescue," said Karol Noe, executive vice-president of vehicle and driver programs at SGI. "Everybody wants to go home from work at the end of the day. Drivers can help keep emergency responders, stranded drivers and bystanders safe by slowing down and moving over."

Drivers who exceed the 60 km/h limit when passing police, ambulances, fire trucks, tow trucks or service vehicles parked roadside with their lights flashing can face fines. The base fine is $170, with additional penalties for each kilometre over the limit. A driver travelling 100 km/h past an emergency or service vehicle would face a $570 fine, because the vehicle is 40 km/h over the 60 km/h limit.

SGI held its fourth annual Slow to 60 event on June 1 at the SGI Salvage Centre in Moose Jaw, from 5:30 to 8 p.m. The outdoor, family-friendly event featured interactive demonstrations including a rollover simulation, vehicle extrication and an airbag deployment, along with food and children's activities.

For more traffic safety tips, visit sgi.sk.ca.