SGI warns of newer, tougher penalties for stunting and street racing

Saskatchewan Government Insurance (SGI) has put out a notice which reminded drivers that newer, stricter rules on stunting and street racing will be implemented in the province starting on October 01.

The insurer noted that by next month, the cost of a ticket for stunting in a motor vehicle will increase to $580 from $150. In addition, drivers caught stunting will also be given four demerit points.

Meanwhile, the ticket for street racing will increase to $580 from $205 – if caught within a year of the first offence, repeat offenders will be charged $1,400 for a second offence, and $2,100 for a third offence. All street racing offences will include four demerit points each.

“Reckless and unsafe driving behaviours like street racing and stunting are a growing concern,” said Minister Responsible for SGI Don Morgan. “These risky choices can have serious and often life-threatening consequences, and the penalties need to appropriately address them.”

The Crown corporation also noted that there is a second part to the legislation change, which will take effect on a later date. Currently, a ticket for street racing would result in an immediate 30-day vehicle impoundment, while repeat offences for stunting resulted in a three-day impoundment. But new rules would later implement both 30-day vehicle impoundments and immediate seven-day licence suspensions for stunting, racing and exceeding the speed limit by more than 50 km/h or by more than double the posted limit.

Read more: SGI advises drivers to obey speed rules in school zones

Earlier this month, SGI advised drivers to observe safety rules in and around Saskatchewan’s school zones, in time for the opening of classes.