Saskatchewan's Safe Driver Recognition Program Explained: How to Keep a Clean Record
When you get your driver's license in Saskatchewan, you're automatically enrolled in the Safe Driver Recognition (SDR) program, administered by SGI. Unlike the demerit point systems in some other provinces where you start with zero points and accumulate them for bad driving, the SDR program is a bit different. It's a system that financially rewards safe drivers and penalizes those who commit traffic offenses.
Understanding how this program works is crucial for every driver, as it directly impacts your wallet. This guide will explain how you gain and lose points, the financial consequences, and how to build a positive safety rating.
The Basics of the Safe Driver Recognition (SDR) Program
The goal of the SDR program is to encourage safe driving by making it financially beneficial. Every driver in Saskatchewan starts at a neutral (0) safety rating.
- Safe Driving: For every year you drive without any at-fault collisions or traffic convictions, you earn one safety point, which moves you up the Safety Rating Scale.
- Unsafe Driving: If you are found responsible for an at-fault collision or are convicted of a traffic violation, you lose points. The number of points you lose depends on the severity of the incident.
The scale ranges from -20 (the worst rating) to +25 (the best rating, representing the "Safety Zone").
Earning a Discount: The Reward for Safe Driving
The biggest benefit of the SDR program is the vehicle insurance discount.
- For every point you have in the positive range (from +1 to +25), you earn a 1% discount on your vehicle's registration and insurance premium.
- This means drivers in the Safety Zone (+25) receive a 25% discount on their insurance each year. This is a significant saving that directly rewards you for being a safe and responsible driver.
Losing Points and Facing Penalties: The Cost of Unsafe Driving
When you lose points and move into the negative side of the scale, you face financial penalties. You are required to pay a financial penalty for each point you lose in a year.
- Penalty Threshold: Penalties start once you have more than one incident in a year.
- Cost Per Point: The financial penalty is $50 per point you lose.
- Example: If you are at a neutral rating and get a ticket for speeding that results in a 4-point loss, you will receive a bill from SGI for a $200 financial penalty ($50 x 4 points).
If you move into the negative range on the scale, you will also have to pay a Safety Rating Penalty on top of any financial penalties for points lost that year. This penalty is based on where you are on the scale. For example, a driver at -10 would have to pay a $250 penalty, while a driver at -20 would face a $1000 penalty.
Common Offenses and the Points You Lose
The number of points you lose is tied to the severity of the offense. Here are some examples:
| Points Lost | Common Offenses |
|---|---|
| 6 Points | Impaired driving; Driving while suspended; Racing; Evading police |
| 4 Points | Speeding by more than 35 km/h in a 60 km/h zone or less; Speeding by more than 50 km/h in a zone over 60 km/h; Distracted driving (2nd offense in a year); Stunting; Driving without due care |
| 3 Points | Speeding (most common infractions); Following too closely |
| 2 Points | Failing to stop at a stop sign or red light; Improper turns; Failing to yield |
Incidents involving at-fault collisions also result in a loss of points, typically ranging from 4 to 6 points depending on the claim amount.
Special Rules for New Drivers (GDL Program)
The SDR program applies to all drivers, but new drivers in the Graduated Driver Licensing program face additional consequences.
- Driver Improvement Program: If a new driver loses 4 or more points in one year, they will be required to take a defensive driving course.
- Interview & Suspension: If a new driver loses 6 or more points, they will have their license suspended.
How to Maintain a Good Safety Rating
The path to a good safety rating and a 25% insurance discount is simple in principle:
- Obey all traffic laws: This includes speed limits, stop signs, and traffic lights.
- Drive defensively: Be aware of your surroundings, leave a safe following distance, and avoid aggressive behaviors.
- Stay focused: Avoid all distractions, especially your cellphone. A distracted driving ticket is an expensive 4-point loss on a second offense.
- Never drive impaired: The penalties for impaired driving are the most severe, both legally and within the SDR program.
By making safe choices every time you get behind the wheel, you can avoid costly penalties and reap the financial rewards of being a safe driver in Saskatchewan.
