In January 2024, at the request of the Ministry of Transportation, the Serious Fraud Office (SFO) began an investigation into suspected irregularities in the driver examination process for commercial Class A licences in Ontario.

The SFO investigation revealed that bribes were facilitated in exchange for favourable consideration during specific applicants’ road examinations.

As a result of the investigation, eight individuals have been arrested and charged with 24 offences. Further details relating to the accused and their respective charges are available in the attached Addendum of Charged Persons.

The accused have been released from custody and are scheduled to appear before the Ontario Court of Justice in Toronto on Thursday, January 28, 2026.

This investigation is ongoing. Anyone with information that could assist with the investigation is asked to call the OPP at 1-888-310-1122. Should you wish to remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS) or ontariocrimestoppers.ca.

The SFO acknowledges the important contributions made by the Ministry of Transportation and the Financial Transactions and Reports Analysis Centre of Canada (FINTRAC) in relation to this investigation.

The post Eight People Facing A Combined 24 Charges Following An Investigation Into Fraudulent Activities Related To Commercial Driver Exams appeared first on Muskoka411.

This demographic, which is known for having a higher tendency to engage in risky driving behaviour, currently holds the highest crash rates nationwide.

“This study marks an important first step in understanding how cannabis edibles impact driving performance,” says Michael Stewart, Community Relations Consultant for CAA South Central Ontario. “Too often, decisions about whether someone is fit to drive are made in the moment, relying on judgment rather than evidence. Cannabis impairment studies like this are essential. Each one brings new learnings that help us refine our approach and ensure that safety is never left to chance.”

The findings indicate that critical driving skills, including reaction time, lane discipline, and speed control, were impaired. Consumption times may vary to feel the effects of edible cannabis from driver to driver. However, the study found that impairment was most evident at 90 minutes after consumption, so its effects may not be noticeable until a motorist is already behind the wheel.

When asked if they felt safe to drive after consuming edibles, only four per cent felt safe getting behind the wheel 90 minutes after eating an edible cannabis product.

What is interesting about this is that in a controlled environment, young drivers feel unsafe driving under the influence of cannabis. However, a recent survey of 1,510 Ontario drivers from CAA SCO shows that drivers often have a false sense of confidence when they have driven high in the past.

The perception of safety doesn’t match reality.

The survey found that the number of people admitting to cannabis-impaired driving in Ontario (nearly 20 per cent) has remained stable compared to last year. However, a concerning trend has emerged, with more cannabis-impaired drivers (78 per cent) saying they are confident in their driving abilities while under the influence – a 13 per cent overall increase from 2021.

Why is this concerning? The perception of safety doesn’t match reality. More than a third of cannabis-impaired drivers acknowledged feeling high while driving, relying on their personal judgment for signs of impairment, such as drowsiness, slowed reaction time, or brain fog.

“This misplaced confidence can lead to dangerous decisions, increasing the risk of collisions and endangering road users,” adds Stewart. “We must recognize that getting behind the wheel is not just a personal choice it’s a responsibility that affects the safety of everyone on our roads.” 

Growing issue of poly-use.

The research also points to a growing issue of poly-use, or the consumption of multiple substances and is on the rise. This trend adds another layer of complexity to road safety efforts, as the combined effects of different substances can further impair judgment and reaction times.

Most respondents (57 per cent) say they consume cannabis in combination with other substances – most commonly, alcohol. However, painkillers, psilocybin, ecstasy, and MDMA are on the rise.

CAA SCO continues to advocate for safer roads by encouraging motorists to make responsible choices. The message is clear: do not get behind the wheel when impaired.

“While we’re all aware that alcohol-impaired driving can be dangerous, we should also take the same attitude towards cannabis-impaired driving,” says Stewart. “With the holiday season coming up, cannabis can be consumed legally and responsibly but should never be used when driving.”

CAA is asking that those who do consume cannabis, alcohol or other drugs to plan ahead by making alternate arrangements, such as a designated driver or using a rideshare service, to get home safely this holiday season.

Methodology

The online survey was conducted by DIG Insights from June 27 to July 14, 2025, with 1,510 Ontario drivers aged 19 and older. Based on the sample size of n=1,510 and with a confidence level of 95 per cent, the margin of error for this research is +/- 2%.)

Methodology of the University of Saskatchewan study

The study collected extensive data from 50 young adult drivers (aged 19–30), resulting in 250 assessments across multiple realistic driving scenarios using a simulator after consuming a 10mg THC edible.

The post New CAA Study Sheds Light On Edible Cannabis And Collision Risk Among Young Drivers appeared first on Muskoka411.

As temperatures drop and Canadians hit the road ahead of the holiday season, staying alert and prepared behind the wheel is key. In Muskoka and across much of Ontario, winter brings a mix of unpredictable conditions, from sudden snow squalls to icy backroads and lower visibility. For drivers, that means adjusting their habits and preparing their vehicles for whatever the season has in store.

Whether you’re heading to work, visiting family, or making a weekend trip up north, a few simple precautions can make all the difference in your journey. Here are five tips to help you stay confident and in control behind the wheel this season.

Slow down and give yourself extra travel time

It may sound obvious, but it’s worth repeating. Winter roads can be unpredictable, and sudden snow squalls or icy patches can appear without warning. Giving yourself extra time means you can drive at a pace that allows you to react safely to changing conditions. It also reduces stress behind the wheel, letting you stay calm if the unexpected happens.

Clear snow and ice from your vehicle

You’d be surprised at how many people don’t take this seriously, but visibility is everything in the winter. Before heading out, remove snow and ice from all windows, mirrors, headlights, and taillights. Don’t forget the roof either, since snow can slide down onto your windshield or onto cars behind you. A quality snow brush and ice scraper will make snow removal easy, but it’s also important to make sure to switch to windshield wipers and washer fluid that are designed to work in freezing conditions as well.

Once you’ve removed the snow and ice, wait for the windshield to fully defog before starting your trip so you have a clear view in all directions. Even small patches of ice or snow still on your windshield can make it hard to see properly, and that limited visibility can increase the risk of accidents.

Brake earlier than you think you need to, and stay calm if you hit ice

Those shiny, icy spots you see near intersections? They’re not your imagination. Constant stopping and starting polishes the ice, and even with salt, it can stay slick for several car lengths before the stop line. So, when you’re approaching a stop, ease off the gas and start braking sooner and more gently – your bumper will thank you. And if you do start to slide at a stop sign or a red light, keep your wheels straight, stay on the brakes, and avoid sudden moves. Look where you want to go, and your hands (and the car) will follow.

Have the right tires for the season

When it comes to winter driving, your tires are your connection to the road. Winter tires are designed to perform in a range of extreme conditions, whether wet, snowy, slushy, or icy, helping you maintain control when it matters most. Michelin has tested and developed winter tires for every type of driver and vehicle to help provide the right fit, performance, and safety, giving Canadians confidence on the road in any condition. To find the right tire for you, visit michelin.ca to see the range of winter tires available for your make and model.

Drive with care

Winter driving isn’t the time for aggressive maneuvers. Keep both hands on the steering wheel in the 9 and 3 positions at all times, and make gentle, deliberate movements. Avoid sudden lane changes in slushy conditions, as these can cause you to lose traction. If you need to change lanes or make turns, do it gradually and with plenty of space. Smooth acceleration, braking, and steering help your tires maintain contact with the road and keep you in control.

No matter where the road takes you this winter, a little preparation and patience go a long way. With the right mindset – and the right tires – you can drive with confidence through whatever Mother Nature sends your way.

*This Article Is Sponsored By Michelin

The post The Winter Driving Tips Every Canadian Should Know appeared first on Muskoka411.

It’s no secret that electric vehicle (EV) sales have been steadily increasing in Canada, with every major manufacturer expanding their lineup and R&D efforts. According to analysis from Transport Canada, EVs and plug-in hybrids made up around 13 per cent of all light-duty vehicle sales in July 2024, up from 11 per cent the previous year, showing continued momentum in adoption across the country. Additionally, a large majority of EV drivers have reported that they would choose an EV again for their next vehicle purchase, meaning that we can continue to expect more EVs on the road in the coming years.

Despite the increase in Canadians getting behind the wheel of an EV, range anxiety and the lack of access to charging stations remains one of the most persistent concerns among potential buyers.

While battery innovation will advance in the coming years, the parts installed on an EV can significantly impact its range right now. When it comes to tires, factors like temperature, wear and tear, and load capacity all influence the distance an EV can travel on a single charge.

A Michelin survey of more than 1,500 Canadians revealed that most current EV owners and potential buyers don’t fully recognize the role tires play in battery life and efficiency. Like any technological shift, education is critical, which is why it’s important to understand how tires contribute to the overall performance of your EV.

Below are some of the key knowledge gaps the survey revealed, and how you can alleviate range anxiety with something as simple as the tires you put on your car.

More weight means less distance

EVs are heavier than gas-powered vehicles due to the size and weight of their batteries. More weight on tires means more rolling resistance and energy consumption which directly affects range.

Yet 76 per cent of Canadians surveyed were unaware that tire quality can influence EV performance. To support this extra weight, EVs need larger tires or models with increased load-bearing capacity. By equipping your EV with tires designed specifically to handle this added weight, you can improve efficiency and extend your range.

High torque results in significant rolling resistance

The survey also found that 83 per cent of Canadians didn’t connect battery life with tire age, while 68 per cent didn’t realize that rolling resistance plays a role in efficiency.

Since EVs deliver instant torque, their tires experience higher stress, making rolling resistance and tire durability even more important for maintaining range. Interestingly, worn tires can provide nearly six per cent more range compared to brand-new ones, further highlighting the value of long-lasting, high-quality tires.

By choosing one of the many high-performance tires that Michelin has engineered for EVs, drivers can maintain lower rolling resistance for longer, improving range without compromising safety or tread life.

Cold weather has a greater effect on EVs

Canadian winters pose another major challenge. Cold temperatures can reduce battery performance by up to 30 per cent, and while most drivers are aware of that impact, 81 per cent don’t realize how winter tires can help.

The best winter tires are designed with specialized compounds and tread patterns that maintain grip and keep rolling resistance low even in cold, wet, or icy conditions. For EV drivers, that means not only safer handling but also more efficient energy use, ultimately resulting in longer range on every charge. For drivers looking to get the most from their EV year-round, choosing tires built specifically for electric performance can make a measurable difference in both safety and efficiency. If you’re looking for the right tire for your EV, you can visit michelin.ca.

As more consumers consider purchasing EVs, range anxiety will continue to top their concerns. But it’s important to understand how something as simple as the right set of tires can alleviate those concerns, enhance performance, and help make the switch to electric a confident one.

*This Article Is Sponsored By: Michelin 

The post The Secret To Going Farther In Your EV appeared first on Muskoka411.

“Now is the ideal time for motorists to install winter tires, check their car battery, and ensure they have an emergency car kit packed,” says Nadia Matos, manager of external communications, CAA SCO. “These simple steps can help motorists confidently navigate winter roads. Ontario weather can be unpredictable, and snowstorms can hit without much notice, so it’s always best to ensure your vehicle is prepared beforehand.”

Besides vehicle preparedness, driver behaviour is just as critical in ensuring safe driving operations in winter weather.

“Road safety is everyone’s responsibility,” says Sergeant Murray Campbell of the Toronto Police Service. “As daylight hours shorten and visibility decreases, we encourage all road users to stay alert, watch out for one another, adjust their driving to match weather conditions, keep their vehicle lights on, and plan ahead to accommodate longer travel times.”

This year, the organizations are focused on protecting motorists who may be caught in unexpected winter weather.

“We always encourage motorists to drive according to the road and weather conditions,” says Sergeant Kerry Schmidt of the Ontario Provincial Police. “Drivers should also slow down and move over when approaching stopped emergency vehicles and tow trucks with their emergency lights flashing while they are assisting vehicles and motorists in need of help. It is also unsafe and illegal to try to pass a full echelon of snowplows that are clearing all lanes of a highway during winter events.”

Before heading out on the road this winter, MTO encourages motorists to download and use the 511 app to check the weather and road conditions before they leave home. The 511 app can be found at 511on.ca or in the app store on their mobile devices.

For a safer trip this winter, motorists can also follow these additional safety tips:

• Install winter tires for better traction. On cold and snowy roads, winter tires can help reduce your braking distance by up to 25 per cent. Members can call CAA before Dec. 20 to have our mobile tire service change them at home for a fee.
• Test your car battery. If necessary, replace it before it fails. CAA SCO will test Members’ batteries free of cost during a service call.
• Pack a fully stocked emergency car kit. The kit should include a flashlight, extra batteries, warning devices (e.g., flares, reflective vests/strips), a first aid kit, blankets, jumper cables, non-perishable food and water, and a phone charger. Be sure to always keep an ice scraper, small shovel, and snow brush handy in your car.
• Service your vehicle. Have your brakes checked, oil changed, and top up your windshield washer fluid and any other fluids that are getting low.
• Always keep your gas tank at least half full. Cold weather causes condensation in the system, which can lead to a fuel line freeze-up and prevent the car from starting.
• Check your lighting system. Ensuring you have full lighting is very important in the winter months. Check your headlights and signal lights to ensure they work correctly.

The post CAA, MTO, OPP, And Toronto Police Service Team Up To Share Winter Road Safety Tips appeared first on Muskoka411.

Bracebridge OPP officers responded to sixteen motor vehicle collisions during the first snowfall of the season, the majority of which occurred on secondary roads, and none resulted in significant injuries.

Police are reminding motorists to take the time to prepare themselves and their vehicles for safe winter driving as we head into the winter months, including some safety tips:

• Clear your vehicle entirely of snow, that includes your roof and all windows
• Top up your windshield washer fluid
• Ensure that your vehicles lighting system is working and ON so that other drivers can see you
• Slow down in response to changing weather conditions
• Increase your reactionary gap and give other vehicles extra space on the road
• Allow yourself extra time to complete your trip and be patient
• Plan your trip before starting out. Visit the Ministry of Transportation (MTO) web site for road conditions at: www.511on.ca.
• Carry a survival kit in your vehicle. For a description of a winter driving survival kit visit: http://www.mto.gov.on.ca/english/safety/winterdrive/winterdrive.shtml. Recommended items include a shovel, blanket, warm clothes, food, booster cables, flashlight, high energy foods, matches and a candle.
• As always, do NOT drive if you have drugs or alcohol in your system.

The post Bracebridge OPP Officers Responded To 16 Collisions During First Snowfall appeared first on Muskoka411.

A few proactive steps can significantly reduce the risk of traffic incidents, especially during icy and snowy conditions.

Motorists are encouraged to:

• Install winter tires for improved traction and control
• Schedule routine maintenance checks, including brakes, battery, fluids and heating systems
• Ensure windshield wipers and defrosters are functioning properly
• Keep an emergency kit in your vehicle, including blankets, a flashlight, and non-perishable snacks

Slippery roads, reduced visibility and changing conditions require extra caution. Adjust your driving to meet the conditions and remain focused on the road and on other vehicles.

Always:

•  Stay alert – slow down and increase your following distance, especially in snowy or icy conditions
• Avoid braking suddenly, always use your headlights in low visibility and remember to clear ALL snow from your vehicle before driving
• Give yourself extra time to reach your destination and be respectful of other road users
• Before heading out, check the MTO’s Ontario 511 and Traveller Information Service for 24/7 and up-to-date access to road information on provincially maintained highways, and monitor local radio for updates

If an emergency, call 911. For non-emergency police matters, contact the OPP at 1-888-310-1122.

The post OPP Reminds All Motorists To Prepare For The Winter Season appeared first on Muskoka411.

As part of promoting good driving and safe travelling on our roads, the Huntsville O.P.P. want motorists to get ready for changing road conditions. Take the next weeks to get your vehicles up to snuff.

WAYS TO PREPARE:

• Ensure your fuel tank is full, top up your windshield washer fluid and have an emergency travel kit (food, blanket, candle, extra cell phone battery/charger) in case you get stranded or stuck.
• Make sure your vehicle is winter ready (fluids, snow tires etc)
• Clear snow from your entire vehicles windows and roof top before travelling.
• Do a circle check of your vehicle whenever you stop as snow will accumulate and obscure your brake and tail lights
• SLOW DOWN, leave extra space, keep your eyes on the road ahead
• Road condition can change quickly ( town roads vs highways) so be alert.
• Driver’s must adjust their driving behaviours to the conditions.

Sometimes it is illegal to pass an operating snow plow. They are working to make our roads safer for everyone.

Call 511 or visit 511on.ca or follow @511Ontario for the latest road conditions and closures.

Please do not call 911 or other police phone lines to ask about road conditions.

The post Winter Is Coming And Huntsville OPP Wants Drivers To Be Ready appeared first on Muskoka411.

In Desjardins Insurance’s most recent survey, approximately 4,000 Canadians shared their opinions about behaviours and habits on the road, with 60% of the people surveyed pointing to distracted driving as the top risk factor. The largest perceived distractions include things like what’s happening outside of the car (34%), cellphone-related distractions (31%), drivers using a media console or interface (24%), and eating and drinking (22%).

Other top risk factors identified were alcohol impaired driving (59%) and aggressive driving (46%). When asked specifically about aggressive driving, only 6% of Canadians consider themselves to be an aggressive driver, although 71% say they regularly see aggressive driving behaviours when they are behind the wheel.

“This survey is just one of the ways Desjardins is working to be road a safety advocate; to protect and help save lives on our roads,” said Valérie Lavoie, President and COO of Desjardins General Insurance Group. “Distracted driving and aggressive driving put drivers and other road users at extreme risk. The insight we get and the behaviours and perceptions we learn about in the survey are key to having better-informed drivers on the road and safer roads in our communities.”

The survey found that 37% of Canadians are trying to be less distracted behind the wheel, precisely because of the risk of a collision. And while fines and rewards are becoming less effective at countering distracted driving, Canadian drivers are increasingly open to using apps that analyze their behaviour on the road.

The proportion of drivers with safety technologies in their vehicles also continues to see significant growth. Over the past 5–10 years, car manufacturers have rolled out innovations that have had an impact on the number of road-related incidents. Today, nearly half of drivers have vehicle safety technologies in their cars; things like rear-view cameras, or indicator lights that alert drivers to a car coming up to pass or sitting in their blind spot. According to the survey, 47% of drivers say the technology is increasingly helping them prevent collisions (compared to 43% in 2023 and 38% in 2021). It also turns out that younger drivers are more likely to depend on them to help avoid a collision (47% of 16–34-year-olds, compared to 39% of 55–74-year-olds).

Prevention is a priority for Desjardins Insurance. The organization invests over $1.2 million annually in support of road safety initiatives and key partnerships, some going back more than 40 years. The relationships have always had a strong focus on shared road use among motorists, cyclists, and pedestrians. The Desjardins Insurance survey shows that support for Vision Zero policies went up over the past two years, especially among young people. More 16–34-year-olds (69% compared to 55% of the Canadian average) support the adoption of a Vision Zero strategy in their region. Young people are voicing their support for stronger advocacy and better road safety infrastructure, like speed bumps, bike-specific lanes, and more. Desjardins Insurance’s continued advocacy and push for better infrastructure are key to making our roads safer and helping put an end to preventable deaths and injury.

The post Desjardins Insurance Survey Shows Distracted Driving Number One Concern For Drivers appeared first on Muskoka411.

“Ontario’s seniors deserve a convenient and accessible way to renew their drivers’ licences, ensuring they can stay connected to their communities,” said Todd McCarthy, Minister of Public and Business Service Delivery and Procurement. “Reaffirming Ontario’s commitment to enhancing customer service and supporting the needs of seniors, this new streamlined process eliminates the need for seniors to visit multiple locations, cutting wait times, expanding access to essential services, and creating a more inclusive and efficient system across the province.”

Previously, drivers aged 80 and over had to visit a separate location to complete their vision and cognitive screening assessments and then proceed to ServiceOntario to renew their drivers’ licences. With this new approach, seniors will now be sent a renewal notice by mail approximately 90 days before their licence expires, with instructions to book an appointment online or by phone. At their scheduled visit, they can complete the necessary assessments and, if eligible, renew their drivers’ licences on the spot at their local ServiceOntario centre.

The post Ontario Simplifies Driver’s License Renewal For Seniors appeared first on Muskoka411.