MARATHON -- A Quebec resident is facing a stunt driving charge following radar patrol on Highway 17.
Members of Marathon Ontario Provincial Police were conducting radar patrol on Highway 17 in the Rouse Lake area on April 30 at approximately 1 p.m. when they observed a vehicle travelling more than 150 kilometres per hour.
While Marathon is known for its scenic driving, stunt driving is hazardous on Highway 17. Sharp curves and steep elevations combined with unsafe driving behaviours, including excessive speed, can result in severe or even fatal collisions.
Stunt driving/street racing comes with severe penalties, including a 30-day licence suspension and 14-day vehicle impoundment. Upon conviction, offenders can face a fine of $2,000 to $10,000, a jail sentence of six months, or both.
Members of the public are reminded that road safety is a shared responsibility. To ensure that we all get to our destinations safely, all motorists are expected to:
- drive according to the weather conditions and within the posted speed limit;
- drive sober, and be mindful that alcohol, drugs, prescription medications and even lack of sleep can impair your ability to drive;
- keep your attention on the road and limit distractions within your vehicle. In addition to using a phone or other handheld wireless communication device while driving, other forms of distraction include eating, drinking, grooming, smoking, reading and reaching for objects; and,
- always wear a seatbelt and ensure that child car seats have been properly installed.