Most drivers who speed don't realize that they are not only risking a speeding ticket but also someone's life, maybe even their own. Following the posted speed limit under favourable road and weather conditions is a simple but essential step in keeping Alberta's roads safe.

The reasons for following the speed limit far outweigh any possible excuse to speed. Over 21.6 per cent of all fatal crashes involve driving at a speed unsafe for the conditions present on the road.

Contrary to what some people think, speed limits are not set randomly. Speed limits are a calculation of the highest possible speed a car can safely travel given the condition of the road.

Speeding has a serious effect on a driver's ability to steer safely around curves or objects in the roadway, and it lengthens the distance required to stop a vehicle in an emergency. Driving too fast doesn't allow drivers enough time to react to traffic signals such as red lights or stop signs, or other potential hazards that may be present, like children darting into traffic.

Don't be lulled into a false sense of security about your safety devices such as airbags, seatbelts and crumple zones. They are not as effective in a speed- related collision.

Speeding can also put a crimp on your pocketbook and your lifestyle. Most speeding violations bring hefty fines and demerit points. Anyone who accumulates 15 or more demerit points in a two-year period will have their licence automatically suspended for one month. Speeding offences can also result in a court appearance.

Know Your Limits

Speed limits do not indicate the speed you should travel. Speed limits are the maximum speeds permitted if conditions are favourable. Any speed which is unsafe under the prevailing conditions is illegal.

Some special speed zones you will encounter on the road are:

School and Playground Zones

Generally, the speed limit is 30 km/h for both school and playground zones in urban areas. School zones are usually in effect every day that school is in session. Playground zones operate from 8:30 a.m. to one hour after sunset every day of the year. These limits can vary so drivers should watch for posted signs.

Construction Zone

This is a place where drivers should anticipate unpredictable activity and unreliable road conditions. The speed limits in construction zones are set to reduce the risk for both drivers and workers.

Drivers will generally pass through a series of outer zones before entering the actual construction zone. These are designed to create the safest possible conditions and usually consist of:

1. Zone one - the advance warning area that tells traffic what to expect ahead.
2. Zone two - the transition area that typically moves traffic out of its normal path, advises drivers to reduce speed and not pass other vehicles.
3. Zone three - a buffer area that typically uses barricades and traffic cones to protect workers and traffic just before the work area begins.

Urban and Rural Roads

The speed limit is 50 km/h on urban roads and 80 km/h in rural areas unless otherwise posted. Remember to slow down in bad weather, at night and when driving on poorly lit roadways.

Speeding Facts

Speeding is one of the most common causes of accidents on Alberta's streets and highways.

There are as many reasons for speeding as there are days in the month, but none of them are legitimate. Why do we do it? The most common reasons heard are:

• I drive fast because I'm a good driver.
• I have fast reflexes so I can drive faster.
• I have to keep up with the traffic.
• Other drivers do it.
• I've been driving for years and never had a collision.
• I am really late for an appointment.

Did you know?

Speeding is a contributing factor in many fatal crashes. Some drivers think driving a few kilometres an hour over the posted speed limit is an acceptable risk because they believe the worst that can happen is receiving a speeding ticket. They are wrong. Speeding:

• Reduces your ability to steer safely around curves or objects in the roadway.
• Decreases your field of vision and your peripheral vision (on both sides).
• Extends the distance required to stop your vehicle in emergency situations.
• Reduces your ability to obey traffic control devices such as stopping for red lights and stop signs.
• Increases the chances that you will lose control of your vehicle.
• Reduces the effectiveness of seat belts and other safety devices such as airbags and side impact beams.
• Increases probability of death or injury if there is a crash.
• Reduces the effectiveness of roadside hardware such as barriers, crash cushions and bridge rails.

Know the limits

Again, speed limits do not indicate the speed you should travel; they are the maximum speeds permitted if conditions are favourable. The next time you head out, know and obey the rules:

• In Alberta, the speed limit is 50 km/h in urban areas and 80 km/h on rural roadways unless otherwise posted.
• Use common sense. Slow down in bad weather, at night and when driving on poorly lit roadways.
• Slow down on unfamiliar roads.
• Slow down in school zones and playground areas. Obey all posted speed limits.
• Observe and follow all posted speed limits when travelling through a construction zone.