In light of current inclement winter conditions complicating road safety, the West Parry Sound OPP (Ontario Provincial Police) is reminding locals that it is an infraction under the Highway Traffic Act to drive on a closed highway, noting the penalties for those who break the rules.
Authorities published a press release detailing that the total payable fine for driving on a closed highway is $110. Upon conviction, motorists caught will also receive three demerit points to their driving record. The police also warned that some insurance companies could drop coverage for those drivers involved in a collision while on a closed highway.
Learn more about vehicle insurance here.
“Driving on a closed highway poses a risk to the driver and all occupants of the vehicle,” said OPP staff sergeant Mike Gordon in the release.
“It can also be dangerous for emergency personnel who are working in that closed section of the highway. When motorists abandon their vehicles on closed roadways, it is more difficult for road maintenance crews to clear the snow and that causes longer delays in reopening the roads.”
The release also reminds drivers that bad driving habits cause collisions, specifying that driving too fast for road conditions is the number one cause of crashes during the winter months. The police urged drivers to maintain control of their vehicles and pay attention to their driving at all times. Authorities also suggested that motorists should check local forecasts before they travel and always carry an emergency kit.
Related stories:
ICBC Dial-a-Claim hotline pulls record number of calls
Severe winter weather generates poor road conditions in Newfoundland and Labrador
.jpg)
