Speed limiters##col3

Effective January 1, 2009, standard speed limiters must be activated and set to prevent vehicles from exceeding 105 km/h. This measure concerns the operators of heavy vehicles from anywhere whose trucks travel on the Québec road network.

Definition

Most heavy vehicles assembled in or after 1995 are equipped with an Electronic Control Module (or ECM), which controls various engine parameters such as the maximum speed of the vehicle.

Persons Covered

  • The operator: It is the responsibility of the operator to make sure that the speed limiter is activated. The operator can be the owner or lessee of the vehicle, with or without the services of a driver.
  • The driver: The driver must abide by the posted speed limits at all times.

Vehicles Covered

This requirement covers all trucks and equipment transport vehicles assembled after December 31, 1994 (motor vehicles), with a gross vehicle weight rating of 11 794 kg (26 000 lbs) or more, and equipped with a standard speed limiter.

Vehicles Exempted

Buses, emergency vehicles, recreational vehicles and tool vehicles are not subject to this requirement.

Speed Limiter Activation

The speed of a vehicle can be limited by the manufacturer, dealer, mechanic or even the owner, if the latter has the proper equipment. This operation is done in a few minutes using a portable electronic device that is connected to a dedicated port.

Maximum Speed versus Posted Speed Limit on Québec Freeways

Why set the speed at 105 km/h when the posted speed limit on Québec freeways is 100 km/h?

The maximum speed has been set at 105 km/h to be consistent with other North American jurisdictions that have speed limits slightly higher than 100 km/h.

Fines for Non-Activation

Offenders could face a fine of $350 to $1,050 if the speed limiter is not activated at 105 km/h or less.

The fact that the driver respects the speed limit is not sufficient to meet this requirement.

Documentation