RCMP reminding motorists to slow down following traffic enforcement blitz in Spruce Plains area

October 16, 2026 - Minnedosa, Manitoba
From: Manitoba RCMP

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Motorists are being reminded to slow down, particularly when approaching or passing emergency vehicles.

The reminder comes following a recent two-day traffic enforcement blitz led by Spruce Plains RCMP, RCMP Traffic Services and Motor Carrier Enforcement. The operation – which occurred on Oct. 13-14 along the Yellowhead Highway and Highway 10 – was launched following concerns raised by residents about speeding, commercial vehicle traffic and overall highway safety in the area.

Over the two days, Motor Carrier Enforcement – a division of Manitoba Transportation and Infrastructure – completed 34 commercial vehicle inspections. Fifteen vehicles failed inspection and another four were placed out of service. In total, Motor Carrier Enforcement officers issued 22 offence notices and three warnings.

While Motor Carrier Enforcement officers performed their work, Spruce Plains RCMP and RCMP Traffic Services did theirs. RCMP issued 34 tickets for traffic offences. This includes 16 tickets to drivers who failed to slow down when approaching or passing Motor Carrier Enforcement officers performing their inspections when their vehicles had its emergency lights activated.

As a reminder, the speed limit is 60 km/h for motorists when passing emergency vehicles that are stopped with lights activated on highways with posted speed limits of 80 km/h or higher. The speed limit lowers to 40 km/h on highways where the speed limit is below 80 km/h. The fine for this offence is $298.

“Spruce Plains RCMP were pleased to collaborate with our colleagues at RCMP Traffic Services and Motor Carrier Enforcement, helping us respond to community concerns while supporting the safe operation of commercial vehicles on our roads,” said Spruce Plains RCMP Staff Sgt. Andrew Cowan. “Roadside inspections help identify potential safety issues and it’s important that officers and enforcement personnel can do this work safely.

“Our priority is to encourage safe driving, respond to community concerns and make sure everyone gets home safely.”

RCMP also issued 15 speeding tickets, with a 22-year-old Brandon male being the biggest offender. He was pulled over further down Highway 16 after being clocked travelling at 136 km/h in a 100 km/h zone. This time, no warning was given and he was issued a $521 ticket.

Other offences included driving without a valid licence, driving while disqualified, driving an unregistered vehicle and illegal tinting of driver-side window and failure to have a front licence plate.