The OPP are notifying the public of changes to the Highway Traffic Act (HTA).
On July 1, 2021 two changes to the Highway Traffic Act (HTA) take effect for racing/stunt driving [HTA Sec. 172 (1)].
The changes form part of the Moving Ontarians More Safely (MOMS) Act, which received royal assent on June 3, 2021.
The first change is an increase in the previous seven-day vehicle impoundment period to 14 days.
The second change is the introduction of a lower speed threshold for street racing offenders on municipal roads. On roads with a posted speed limit of less than 80 km/h, drivers caught traveling 40 km/h over the speed limit face racing/stunt driving charges (the previous limit was 50 km/h over the speed limit). The OPP remains committed to saving lives on roads, waterways and trails.
The OPP says they support any legislation that makes our roads safer.
Aggressive driving is dangerous and is a leading causal factor in fatal motor vehicle collisions on OPP-patrolled roads.
Racing, stunt driving, speeding, following too closely, unsafe lane changes and road rage are all forms of aggressive driving that place drivers, passengers, cyclists and pedestrians at risk.
Street racing is one of the most dangerous, aggressive driving behaviours on our roads.
The OPP targets speeders, racers/stunt drivers and other aggressive drivers through robust enforcement and public education.
[…] in the province are unaware that some of these dangerous driving behaviours are considered stunt driving. According to the survey, only 24 per cent of Ontario drivers are aware of all the offences that […]