TORONTO, Oct. 17 – Ontario is getting tough on aggressive drivers. The McGuinty government has introduced the Transit and Road Safety Bill (Bill 169), which has received second reading in the Legislature. If passed, this legislation would:
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Increase fines by 56 per cent for speeding 30 to 34 km/h over the limit;
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Increase licence suspensions for people who repeatedly drive 50 km/h or more over the speed limit;
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Double fines for speeding in a construction zone when workers are present.
“Ontario has the safest roads in North America. But, aggressive drivers are a threat to everyone, including themselves,” said Transportation Minister Harinder Takhar. “Almost half of all fatal collisions involve speed or loss of control, and drivers are 10 times more likely to kill or injure someone in a crash if they are going 50 km/h or more over the posted limit.”
In addition to aggressive drivers, distracted drivers also pose a threat on our roads, which is why the province participated in the first ever International Conference on Distracted Driving recently held in Toronto. It is estimated that driver distraction may contribute to 20 to 30 per cent of all collisions. There are also tough penalties for not paying attention while driving. Careless driving can mean a fine of up to $1,000 and six demerit points. Drivers could also lose their licence or wind up in jail.
Up-to-date information on highway construction and local road conditions is available on the ministry’s toll free road information line at 1-800-268-4686.
