Lower speed limit in effect in many boroughs

A 40 km/h speed limit is now in effect in five of Montreal's boroughs.

The new speed limit bylaw applies to residential streets in Ville St-Laurent, Pierrefonds-Roxboro, Lachine, Rosemont Petite-Patrie and Ville-Marie.

The bylaw was introduced in the fall and took effect after Dec. 27.

The goal is to change drivers' habits, said Manon Barbe, city executive committee member in charge of transportation.

"I know it will take time, and it won't happen overnight," she said. "But drivers have to remember, you know, driving over 40 km/h, you are liable to get a fine."

Fatal collisions involving cars and pedestrians are greatly reduced if the impact speeds are lower, Barbe said.

Montreal police said it will be handing out tickets for first offences.

The speed limit for main arteries in Montreal remains at 50 km/h.

Montreal city council has said it will implement the 40 km/h limit in other boroughs by the end of 2010, Barbe said.