FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
TORONTO — Tough new measures aimed at suspended drivers go into effect on Monday, November 30.
People caught driving while under a Criminal Code suspension will face fines of $5,000 to $50,000, 10 times more than the current fines.
In addition, a two-month education and warning period that launches Ontario’s Vehicle Impoundment Program begins today. The program is aimed at both suspended drivers and vehicle owners who lend their vehicles to suspended drivers.
“Suspended drivers should not be on our roads,” said Transportation Minister Tony Clement. “Through higher fines and the vehicle impoundment program, we are taking stronger action to deter this unacceptable behaviour and make our roads safer.”
If a person is caught driving while under suspension for a Criminal Code offence during the next two months, police may charge that person and issue a warning about the upcoming Vehicle Impoundment Program. After an education and warning period scheduled to end February 2,1999, any vehicle that is being driven by someone under a Criminal Code suspension will be impounded for a minimum of 45 days. Criminal Code driving-related offences include drinking and driving, leaving the scene of an accident, and dangerous driving.
The vehicle impoundment program applies to all vehicle owners. Owners will be responsible for ensuring that any person driving their vehicle has a valid driver’s licence. Owners of impounded vehicles will also be responsible for paying all towing and storage costs.
“Ontario is the last place a person driving while under a Criminal Code suspension wants to get caught,” said Clement. “These tough measures are aimed at some of the worst offenders on our roads, especially repeat offenders who continue to put other road users at risk.”
Ministry of Transportation web site.
Media contacts:
Dan Schultz
Minister’s Office
Tel.: (416) 327-9200
Fax: (416) 327-9188 Anne McLaughlin
Corporate Policy and Communications
Tel.: (416) 235-4102
Fax: (416) 235-4841