Fantino clarifies proposal

OPP News Release

********************

ORILLIA – Yesterday at a media conference at the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) Toronto Detachment, Commissioner Julian Fantino outlined a proposal for an amendment to the Highway Traffic Act to address drivers who recklessly put the safety of the motoring public at risk during times where weather and road conditions make driving more hazardous.

The Commissioner’s proposal would advocate for legislation to amend the Highway Traffic Act to make those drivers accountable for reckless driving behaviour that is not in keeping with the current weather and road conditions. The proposal is for a set fine with potential demerit point implications.

Some media have incorrectly reported on the Commissioner’s comments yesterday and have attributed his statements to include that he is proposing that drivers be liable for insurance costs incurred. “These media reports are a total misrepresentation of the facts” stated Commissioner Fantino. “I was very clear about that in my opening comments to the media when I stated that, from my perspective, this is strictly a public safety issue.” Commissioner Fantino also added, “Some may take exception to my comments on this matter, however, as Commissioner, it is my responsibility to promote public safety issues.”

During the 3 winter storm days from Friday December 19 through to Monday December 22, 2008, on highways patrolled by the OPP, officers responded to over 3,000 vehicle crashes. Most of these crashes are attributable to the weather related road conditions and were preventable. “The reckless driving behaviour of those who refuse to adjust their driving to the weather and road conditions puts everyone’s safety at risk” concluded Fantino.

********************