Saskatchewan Government Insurance (SGI) has announced that some photo speed enforcement cameras across the province may be temporarily inactive as the agency transitions to a new vendor. The change is expected to cause intermittent disruptions in the operation of the cameras, which are used to monitor and enforce speed limits on provincial highways and intersections.
Reason for the Inactivity
According to SGI, the temporary deactivation is part of a planned switch between vendors that manage the photo enforcement program. The agency did not specify which cameras would be affected or provide a timeline for when full operations would resume. However, SGI assured drivers that the disruption is temporary and that efforts are underway to minimize the impact on road safety.
“Some photo speed enforcement cameras may be temporarily inactive as we switch vendors,” SGI stated in a release. The agency did not provide further details on the vendor transition or the number of cameras affected.
Impact on Traffic Enforcement
The photo speed enforcement program in Saskatchewan uses cameras to capture images of vehicles exceeding speed limits. The program aims to reduce speeding and improve road safety. With some cameras temporarily inactive, there may be a reduction in automated ticketing during the transition period. However, SGI reminded drivers that police enforcement continues and that speed limits remain in effect.
Drivers are advised to adhere to posted speed limits at all times, regardless of camera status. The inactive cameras should not be seen as an opportunity to speed, as law enforcement officers will still be conducting speed checks.
Background on Saskatchewan's Photo Enforcement Program
Saskatchewan's photo speed enforcement program was launched to address speeding in high-risk areas, including school zones, construction zones, and intersections with high collision rates. The program has been controversial, with some drivers criticizing it as a revenue-generating tool, while safety advocates argue it reduces accidents and saves lives.
SGI did not disclose the name of the new vendor or the reason for the switch. The agency has not announced a specific date for when all cameras will be fully operational again.
