In Alberta, I've faced a harsh and disproportionate punishment of one year under house arrest and two years on probation for driving at 75 mph (approximately 128 km/h), a speed common on highways across the United States. This experience is not only personally unfair but highlights a broader issue with Alberta’s current highway speed regulations that warrant legislative revision.

Highway speeds in Alberta are simply out of touch with modern vehicle capabilities and the realities of our extensive and mostly rural road networks. In comparison, other jurisdictions around the world and even provinces within Canada have recognized the efficiency and safety benefits of higher speed limits, often set at 120 km/h or higher. Raising the maximum speed limit on divided highways to 130 km/h would align Alberta’s roads with these forward-thinking standards.

Additionally, the current enforcement practices, including speed traps, create an atmosphere of fear and financial strain for many drivers. Instead, Alberta should focus on enforcing more sensible and effective driving behaviors: keeping right except to pass and adjusting speeds for conditions. This approach not only enhances safety but also conforms to the driving culture that many Albertans support.

Yellow speed limit signs could serve as suggested limits, offering guidance without coercion. This change would respect drivers’ judgment and improve traffic flow, while still providing parameters for safe driving.

I urge the Alberta government to modernize our highway laws in line with international practices by increasing the speed limit to 130 km/h, eliminating speed traps, and implementing a keep-right-except-to-pass rule. By signing this petition, you're supporting safer, more efficient highways for all Albertans. Future drivers shouldn’t face the legal pitfalls I did for maintaining a speed commonly deemed reasonable elsewhere.

Please sign to advocate for rational and fair traffic regulations that reflect our province's unique needs and driving dynamics.