Ontario set to get tough on traffic offences
By Trevor Wilhelm, Canwest News ServiceDecember 26, 2009
Ontario will ring in the new year with hefty new punishments for several traffic infractions, including possible prison sentences for drivers caught a second time following fire vehicles too closely.
Drivers caught violating a range of traffic laws will soon face licence suspensions, demerit points and drastic fine increases.
The new penalties take effect Friday, Jan. 1. One of the steepest changes will be for drivers who don't pull over to stop for emergency vehicles or those who follow fire vehicles too closely.
The maximum fine for a first offence is currently $500. It will soon be $2,000, along with three demerit points and a possible two-year licence suspension.
Subsequent offences within five years also will increase. The maximum fine will jump to $4,000, three demerit points, a two-year driver's licence suspension and a possible six-month prison sentence.
The fine for failing to stop at a red light will jump from a $500 maximum to $1,000. Failure to wear a seatbelt and failure to ensure passengers under 16 are properly secured will also increase from $500 to a $1,000 maximum.
The maximum fine for careless driving and failure to remain at the scene of a collision will increase from $1,000 to $2,000. Other penalties for these offences will remain, including a two-year licence suspension and six-month jail term.