The Ontario government has introduced legislation, the Moving Ontarians More Safely Act, 2021 (MOMS Act), which is designed to make Ontario roads safer by combating high-risk stunt driving and require tow truck operators to be certified. 

The Insurance Bureau of Canada (IBC) welcomed the news. “Dangerous driving has no place on our roads, as it puts innocent drivers and pedestrians at risk,” said Kim Donaldson, vice president, Ontario, IBC after the legislation was announced.

“We are pleased to see that this legislation would combat high-risk driving through stiffer fines and increased penalties for dangerous drivers who engage in stunt driving, street racing and aggressive driving. The MOMS Act paves the way for safer roads ahead.” 

New legislation to require tow operators to be certified 

The MOMS Act will ensure road safety and consumer protection for all drivers and pedestrians by strengthening Ontario’s oversight of the towing sector by creating the Towing and Storage Safety and Enforcement Act, 2021. This act would require tow operators, tow truck drivers and vehicle storage operators to be certified, and set new standards for customer protection and roadside behaviours and include penalties for non-compliance. 

In addition, the legislation would introduce measures to combat high-risk driving and improve road safety, including higher fines, longer driver's licence suspensions and longer vehicle impoundment periods for drivers who engage in stunt driving, street racing and aggressive driving.