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Police forces throughout Ontario are intensifying their initiatives to combat illegal car rallies and street racing events, cautioning that new regulations implemented this year carry severe penalties for both reckless drivers and onlookers.
These gatherings, frequently arranged via social media platforms, have gained considerable traction across the province, particularly in commercial parking lots and around high schools.
Law enforcement officials report that certain rallies can draw hundreds of vehicles, often characterized by loud engines, hazardous driving maneuvers, and dangerous stunts that jeopardize the safety of both participants and bystanders.
In a recent update on X, the Windsor police described these events as “loud and disruptive,” emphasizing that they often culminate in “excessive speeding and reckless driving.”
The Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) are also actively engaged in addressing this escalating issue as warmer weather approaches.
The OPP has stated that they will utilize the newly established enforcement measures to address instances of reckless driving.
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“Legislation regarding Careless Driving has been amended to encompass parking lots and other public locations where racing and stunt driving are prevalent,” the OPP shared in a recent communication on X. Sgt. Julie McLeod featured in a video posted on the OPP West Region account, cautioning that penalties for drivers on private property can also be severe.
“Can YOU manage a $490 fine with 6 demerit points?” the region queried in its post.
The province’s Highway Traffic Act delineates harsh repercussions for those engaged in stunt driving or street racing, with convictions potentially resulting in fines that range from $2,000 to $10,000, accompanied by jail time of up to six months, six demerit points, and a compulsory driver improvement program. A first-time offender may face a license suspension of up to three years, while repeat offenses can lead to lifetime driving bans.
Across various municipalities in the province, local governments are collaborating to address the rise of unauthorized rallies. For instance, the City of Brampton has implemented fines ranging from $800 to $2,000 for individuals participating in illegal gatherings, whereas Vaughan has instituted fines of $500 for spectators and up to $2,000 for participants.
Authorities have pledged to monitor social media channels closely for announcements related to event gatherings and urge anyone witnessing a rally or learning of one to report it to their local non-emergency police line.
Toronto is also adopting a comprehensive approach to enhance street safety, exemplified by Mayor Olivia Chow’s recent declaration to deploy 75 additional speed cameras throughout the city. In a short span of 17 months, these initiatives have generated $3.6 million in fines.
As temperatures rise, police anticipate an increased presence on highways and in parking lots across Ontario. “Always remember: driving is a privilege, not a right,” Sgt. McLeod reminded the public.
Source
globalnews.ca