Teen caught driving 137km/h in a 60km/h zone

Eight motorists were taken off the road for stunt driving in Guelph over the holiday weekend, including one novice driver caught driving well over twice the speed limit Saturday night.

Just before 9:30 p.m. a member of the Guelph Police Service Traffic Unit was conducting speed enforcement on Gordon Street near Clair Road when he clocked a vehicle travelling 137 km/h in a posted 60 km/h zone.

A 16-year-old boy from Wellington County is charged with stunt driving, speeding and careless driving. His licence was suspended for 30 days and his family’s SUV was impounded for 14 days.

Seven other drivers were stopped for stunt driving over the weekend, with their speeds ranging from 41 km/h to 55 km/h over the posted speed limit.

On top of the immediate roadside penalty, a stunt driving conviction will attract a minimum licence suspension of one year, a minimum fine of $2,000 and six demerit points. In extreme cases, criminal driving charges could also be laid.

With students returning to classes this week, motorists are reminded to slow down and watch for additional road users including pedestrians and cyclists. Drivers are also reminded that the posted speed limit of 30 km/h in school zones applies 24 hours a day.

The Guelph Police Service will be conducting increased traffic enforcement throughout the month of September as part of its ongoing work to improve road safety and help ensure a safe return to school.