NEWS RELEASE
ONTARIO PROVINCIAL POLICE
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The James Bay Detachments of the Ontario Provincial Police from Hearst to Cochrane and points in between have had to issue numerous traffic violations to motor vehicle drivers who are driving on area highways that have been closed due to inclement weather conditions.
When the OPP decides to close a highway due to weather conditions, it is strictly done for the safety of all motorists. Just this winter alone, from Dec. 1, 2021, to Jan. 11, 2022, James Bay Detachments have issued 36 Highway Traffic Act provincial offences and have had to attend numerous motor vehicle collisions involving motorists driving on a closed highway.
A highway closure is clearly indicated with large road closure signs and there are two infractions related to this type of offence:
- Disobey sign - contrary to section 182(2) of the HTA
- Drive on closed highway, contrary to section 134(3) of the HTA
Those motorists who fail to comply with the law risk being charged. Let's work together to keep our highways safe for everyone.
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