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December 3, 2001 Adjust
speed to road conditions FACT: The posted speed limit on a roadway is a maximum speed suggested under ideal road conditions. FACT: Manitoba motorists often find themselves on roads that are less than ideal. Ice and snow can reduce traction and make driving a treacherous experience. With these facts in mind, Manitoba Public Insurance (MPI) is launching a new promotional campaign aimed at encouraging drivers to adjust their speed according to the conditions of the road. "There are two types of speeding from motorists," said MPI Manager of Road Safety Paul Allen. "There's exceeding the speed limit - which is what most of us think of as 'speeding'. Then there's driving too fast for road conditions, which too many of us don't seem to see as an issue." Between 1992-96, there were about 6,200 crashes due to driving too fast for conditions -- 40 per cent of those crashes took place in December and January. MPI's newest awareness campaign includes a television commercial that shows a man travelling at the posted speed limit down an icy, snow-covered road. Clearly, the poor road conditions are not safe for the posted speed limit and the driver soon loses control of his car. Allen said he hopes this 30-second spot will illustrate how important it is to drive to the condition of the road. "While this driver was not speeding in the sense that most of us think of it and not breaking any laws, it quickly becomes apparent how a driver reacts to poor road conditions can contribute to an accident," he said. Statistics also show that drivers between the ages of 16 and 34 consistently account for the highest number of speed-related crashes, said Allen. MPI's new awareness campaign will air on Manitoba television stations December 3-23 and January 7-27. It will be supported by radio and busboard advertising. Contact:
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