New Road Rules in Ontario Go Into Effect

Ontario driving rulesBeginning Sept. 1, 2015, new road rules went into effect across Ontario. Do you know what these new rules are and how they could affect you?

Move Over Law

Ontario drivers must now slow down or move over a lane for emergency vehicles stopped on the side of the road. The new rule now includes tow trucks as emergency vehicles. If a driver fails to move over or slow down, the fine is $490.

Sharing the Road with Cyclists

To start, Ontario drivers must leave at least one metre between their vehicle and the cyclist when passing a bicycle rider. Failing to leave enough space between the vehicle and cyclist could result in a $110 fine; failing to leave enough room in a community safety zone could result in a $180 fine.

Hitting a cyclist with a door when exiting a vehicle could result in a $365 fine and three demerit points. The new road rules have raised the fines associated with failing to see approaching cyclists when exiting a vehicle.

Distracted Driving

In an effort to crack down on distracted drivers, the minimum fine associated with this reckless behavior has increased. Distracted drivers will now be hit with a minimum $490 fine and three demerit points; the maximum fine is $1,000.

According to the Ontario Provincial Police, distracted driving has exceeded impaired driving as a factor in fatal auto accidents.

Each year, hundreds of lives are lost as a result of driver negligence, while thousands more suffer serious, life-altering injuries.

At Greg Monforton & Partners, we have seen first-hand the damage that car accidents cause, which is why we fight for the rights of those injured at the hands of a careless driver. With decades of legal experience, we can help you determine your legal options and if you are eligible to file a lawsuit.

For a free review of your injury claim, call (866) 320-4770 or fill out an online contact form.