The Alberta Motor Transport Association (AMTA) has expressed frustration with some large carrier companies that reportedly 'have no intention' of adjusting their speeds to match the new 120 km/h limit on the QEII highway. Robert Harper, president of the AMTA, joined Alberta Primetime's Michael Higgins to discuss the ongoing speed limit pilot project.
Pilot Project Raises Concerns
The pilot project, which increased the speed limit on a section of the QEII to 120 km/h, was initiated to test the impact on travel times and safety. However, Harper noted that while many trucking companies have complied, a significant number of large carriers are refusing to increase their speeds, citing fuel efficiency and regulatory concerns.
Safety Implications
Harper emphasized that the discrepancy in speeds between cars and trucks could lead to dangerous situations. 'When cars are traveling at 120 km/h and trucks are moving at 105 km/h, the speed differential creates a hazard,' he said. The AMTA is calling for better communication and enforcement to ensure all vehicles adapt to the new limits.
The pilot project is part of a broader effort to modernize Alberta's highways, but the lack of cooperation from some carriers threatens its success. Harper urged the government to consider mandatory speed limiters for trucks to maintain consistency and safety.
