Drivers warned of the dangers of street racing
The North Bay Police Service has recently received a number complaints from residents reporting drivers of vehicles and/or motorcycles driving at high rates of speed and/or street racing in the following areas:
- Birchs Road
- Lakeshore Drive
- Gormanville Road
- Jane Street
- Front Street
- Norman Avenue
When a police officer observes street racing, driving contests, or other driving stunts, drivers involved will face tough penalties under Ontario’s Highway Traffic Act:
- An immediate seven-day licence suspension
- An immediate seven-day vehicle impoundment at roadside
If convicted, drivers can face:
- A fine from $2,000 to $10,000
- Six demerit points
- a maximum licence suspension of two years for a first conviction; 10 years for a second conviction
- a maximum of six months in jail
Street racing is one of the most serious and reckless forms of aggressive driving. It shows a callous disregard for other drivers and road users, and it puts everyone on the road at serious risk of injury or death. Street racers run the risk of being charged under the Criminal Code of Canada.
For more information on street racing, visit:
- Ontario’s Highway Traffic Act, section 172; and
- Justice Canada’s website for Canada's Criminal Code, under dangerous driving.
