SELECTED TRAFFIC ENFORCEMENT PROGRAM (STEP)
Occupant Restraints/Seatbelts

In November the STEP focuses on proper use of seatbelts.
Research and collision investigations show that the proper use of a seatbelt can reduce fatal and serious injury by 45 – 65 per cent, depending on the type of vehicle and seating position.
For children, the risk of suffering significant injury in a collision increases by nearly three-and-ahalf times when a car seat or booster seat is not used.

In Alberta, wearing a seatbelt is mandatory and it is the driver's responsibility to ensure that all passengers under the age of 16 years are properly restrained in the vehicle. If the passengers are not properly restrained, the driver may receive a fine.

It is also the driver’s responsibility to ensure that children who are under the age of six and weigh less than 40 lbs are properly restrained in an approved child safety seat. Safety seats must be installed according to the vendor and vehicle manufacturer’s instructions.

The fine for not using a seatbelt or child safety seat is $155.00.

BYLAW ENFORCEMENT EDUCATION PROGRAM (BEEP)
Abandoned Vehicles

Throughout the month of November, Grande Prairie Enforcement Services will be looking to clear public streets of potential abandoned vehicles. This is an annual initiative intended to clear
vehicles that may unnecessarily impede upcoming snow removal activities.

According to Provincial Law, an Abandoned Vehicle is any vehicle parked on public property or a city street that has been left unattended in excess of 72 consecutive hours. Some telltale signs of abandoned vehicles include: flat tires, expired licence plate, missing licence plate, andvehicles covered in heaps of snow.

Motorists are also reminded that all vehicles parked on a public road must have current registration/insurance and not be parked in any manner that blocks the roadway or prevents the safe passage of other vehicles or pedestrians.

In the event a potential abandoned vehicle is identified the registered owner will be contacted or a move notice will be placed on the vehicle warning the owner/operator that the vehicle has to be moved. If the vehicle is not moved within 72 hours the owner may receive a fine and thevehicle may be removed.

For more information or to report an abandoned vehicle contact Enforcement Services at 780-830-5790.

Article provided by the City of Grande Prairie.