SGI urges new drivers to ‘keep practising’ after ticket blitz

Saskatchewan Government Insurance is encouraging new drivers to “keep practising” after 79 tickets were distributed to people who weren’t following requirements outlined on their new licence.

During June, SGI focused on new drivers and motorcyclists as part of its monthly traffic spotlight.

According to an SGI news release, 46 tickets were issued to new motorists for driving without a supervising driver and 25 were issued for not following restrictions or riding without the appropriate endorsement. Another five tickets were issued for driving a vehicle while under the age of 16 without proper authorization, and three tickets were handed out for not having the appropriate “novice” or “learner” placard on a motorcycle.

The numbers show “new drivers should continue to study the rules of the road, know what their restrictions are, and get plenty of practice driving with a supervising driver,” SGI said in the release.

The public insurance agency reminds drivers there is zero tolerance for alcohol or drugs for anyone in a Graduated Driver’s Licensing program, and that new drivers and riders cannot use a cellphone in any way while driving.

Drivers who are supervising new drivers also have an important role in the process, SGI noted. They should take the task seriously and consult their updated driver’s handbook.

More than 7,060 other offences were recorded in June.

Most of the 5,670 tickets were for aggressive driving or speeding. Distracted driving tickets accounted for 567 tickets, including 467 for using a cellphone while driving.

Inappropriate or no seatbelt/ child restraint offences followed with a total 455 instances; 375 impaired driving offences were recorded, including 319 criminal charges.