In June 2015, Ontario unanimously passed the Making Ontarios Roads Safer Act, which will bring forward many changes that will be rolled out in the next few months.
Although the act was passed in an effort to help reduce injuries, fatalities and collisions in Ontario, whether the roads become safer will take years to determine.
Have you or someone you love been injured by a careless driver in Ontario? An experienced personal injury lawyer in Windsor, ON at Greg Monforton & Partners may be able to help you determine if you are entitled to compensation.
For a free case review, call (866) 320-4770.
Legislative Changes
Some of the changes that Ontarians can expect include:
- Increased fines for distracted driving as well as assigning three demerit points upon conviction.
- Drivers will have to wait until pedestrians have completely crossed the road at school and pedestrian crossings.
- Drivers must maintain a distance of one meter when passing someone on a bicycle.
- “Dooring,” or opening a door and hitting a cyclist passing by the vehicle, will result in a fine between $300 and $1,000 and three demerit points.
It is not just drivers who should expect changes. The legislation also imposes penalties on cyclists who fail to have the required lights or reflectors on their bikes. Cyclists riding without proper lighting could incur a penalty upwards of $500.
All these changes are an effort to get motorists, cyclists and pedestrians to coexist safely on Ontario roads. Although the changes may not quickly solve any issues, it does send a clear message to Ontarians that carelessness on the roads will not be tolerated.
There are more than 600,000 cyclists on Ontarios roads each day, along with millions of drivers and pedestrians. We implore everyone to make an effort to share the road with others.
With decades of legal experience, the car accident lawyers at Greg Monforton & Partners are dedicated to fighting for the rights of injury victims. If youre ever in need of legal representation following a car, bike or pedestrian accident, contact our firm for a free legal consultation.
Call (866) 320-4770 or fill out and online contact form.