“A narrow bikelane” by Hallgrimsson – Own work. Licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0 via Wikimedia Commons.
The province of Ontario has unanimously passed new legislation that makes the penalties for some of the most serious traffic offenses considerably stiffer than they were. In an attempt to provide a more effective deterrent against, among other things, distracted driving, driving under the influence of alcohol and drugs, and failing to properly share the roadway with cyclists, fines have been increased.
A single text message could cost Ontario drivers more than a new smartphone. Distracted driving will now cost $1000 and three demerit points.
Driving under the influence of marijuana will now carry the same penalties as driving while drunk, which is common to most Canadian provinces. There will be steep fines, escalated license suspensions, and mandated addictions counselling for repeat offenders.
Cyclists must be given more space – one meter in all directions, which can make it tight on some city streets. “Dooring” a rider by opening the car door without looking, and hitting a cyclist, which has long been a hazard in urban areas will carry a penalty up to $1000.
Cyclists will get more responsibility, too. They’ll face fines up to $500 if they’re not using required reflectors or lights.
For our Ontario counterparts in the towing industry, tow trucks will be given the same level of respect that other emergency vehicles receive. When passing a truck with the lights flashing, drivers are now required to slow down and give a full lane for the emergency operation whenever possible. This move alone will make Ontario’s roads a safer place for all who use them.
At Dr. Hook Towing, we often see the consequences of unsafe behavior on city streets and highways. We see Ontario’s stiffening of traffic laws as a necessary update of legislation that’s meant to make the roads safe for everyone.
Get in touch with us! For 24 hour tow truck service, call us Toll Free at 1-800-561-4665. Learn more about our Towing and Recovery Services. You can also sign up online for our Guaranteed Roadside Assistance program, membership is free and you know we’ll be there if you need us.