Ontario road safety updates have implications for drivers, cyclists, and motor vehicle accident lawyers

This September 1, the Province of Ontario implemented a number of new and updated road safety rules which will effect drivers, cyclists, pedestrians, and motor vehicle accident lawyers alike. Stricter distracted driving penalties are a centrepiece of the new rules, as increased cell phone use has led to a rising number of collisions and fatalities in recent years. The new rules will also aim to protect tow truck drivers and children on school buses with stricter “Slow Down, Move Over” regulations, and place a renewed emphasis on cyclist safety.

Rule updates include:

Distracted Driving

Whether you’re checking the Blue Jays score on your smart phone or yelling at the kids in the back seat, distracted driving is a dangerous practice. Since 2009, upwards of 500 people have been killed in collisions caused by distracted driving on provincial roads. In fact, collision trends in Ontario suggest distracted driving fatalities may exceed those from drunk driving as early as 2016.

The province’s rule changes feature harsher punishments for distracted drivers, including a new set fine of $490 and three demerit points. Novice drivers guilty of distracted driving will receive a minimum 30-day suspension for their first conviction. In instances where injury occurs, motor vehicle accident lawyers can help victims navigate the legal landscape and earn appropriate compensation.

Cyclist Safety

Today, 1.2 million Ontarians ride their bicycles on a daily basis. Unfortunately, with an influx of cyclist traffic comes an influx of bicycle injuries, which the government is trying to mitigate by imposing harsher penalties on both drivers and cyclists who refuse to take necessary safety precautions. Drivers will face an increased minimum fine of $365 for opening their door and causing a cyclist to crash into it – an action known as dooring – and must now leave at least a metre of space when passing a cyclist.

Cyclists, meanwhile, may be punished for failing to adopt common sense safety precautions. Missing front lights and back reflectors can result in a $110 set fine.

Tow Trucks

Drivers in Ontario must now slow down and move over to give space to tow trucks stopped by the side of the road. Similar rules have been in place for emergency vehicles for years, and now tow truck drivers will benefit from similar protection. Failure to comply with the new law carries a minimum fine of $490.

The stricter fine has been implemented for good reason – a tow truck driver was struck and killed by a transport truck several years ago near London, ON. Severe injury and wrongful death are realities of car accidents, and motor vehicle accident lawyers can help ensure the guilty parties are held responsible.

School Buses

Police will be cracking down on drivers who fail to stop for school buses, as well. First time convictions will be punished with a fine of up to $2,000 and six demerit points.

“Ontario’s roads are among the safest in North America, and we want to keep it that way,” said Ontario Minister of Transportation Steven Del Duca. “We will continue to work hard to curb distracted driving, protect cyclists, and improve the safety of tow truck operators and children riding school buses.”

While updated rules of the road can help to improve the safety of Ontarians, some car accidents are unavoidable. If you or a member of your family has been seriously injured, contact Neinstein Personal Injury Lawyers’ team of motor vehicle accident lawyers today. We will fight to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.