SELECT LANGUAGE

Traffic & Road Safety

Headlights On For Safety!

Headlights allow you to see the road ahead in poor visibility and make your vehicle visible to others. They must shine a white light visible from at least 150 metres. 

Headlights have two beam settings:

High beam – for better long-distance visibility. Switch to low beam when approaching oncoming traffic or driving behind another vehicle.

Low beam – to reduce glare for other drivers. Always use low beams when near other vehicles. These rules apply on all roads, including divided highways.

When you turn on your headlights, other required lights, parking lights, taillights, and rear licence plate light are also activated. Daytime running lights are automatically activated in good light conditions when the headlight switch is off, improving vehicle visibility.

Full headlights must be on:

  • From 30 minutes before sunset to 30 minutes after sunrise
  • During poor visibility conditions (fog, snow, rain, or any situation where you cannot clearly see people or vehicles).
  • For motorcycles, front and rear lamps must be on at all times.


Do not drive with only one headlight or with misaligned lights. Keep your lighting system clean, check it regularly, and replace burned-out bulbs as soon as possible.

Car Insurance

Driving Without Insurance – Serious Consequences

Traffic officers are increasingly finding drivers on the road without valid insurance.

Did you know:

  • Officers can access province-wide databases to check if a vehicle has a valid insurance policy.
  • A first offence for operating a motor vehicle without insurance carries a minimum fine of $5,000, and $10,000 for a second offence.
  • Presenting a false or counterfeit insurance slip can result in a $10,000 fine upon first conviction and $20,000 for subsequent convictions. 
  • A criminal driving conviction can make it very difficult or even impossible to get insurance coverage.


Insurance doesn’t just protect your vehicle; it also protects you against civil liability. Court-awarded damages in civil lawsuits can reach two million dollars or more.

Tip: Check with your insurance provider to ensure your coverage is valid and complete. It could save you thousands of dollars and serious legal trouble.

Remember: Road safety and responsibility start with you.

Winter Driving Safety

Canadian winters bring challenging road conditions, and safe driving practices are essential to prevent collisions and keep everyone safe on the road. By preparing your vehicle and adjusting your driving habits, you can reduce risks and travel more confidently throughout the season.

  • Slow down and drive according to road conditions.
  • Clear all snow and ice from your vehicle before driving, including windows, mirrors, lights, and the roof.
  • Increase your following distance, icy roads mean longer stopping times.
  • Use winter tires for improved traction.
  • Keep your windshield washer fluid full and wipers in good condition.
  • Always carry a winter safety kit (blanket, flashlight, booster cables, first aid kit, extra clothing, food, and water).
  • Anticipate weather changes or delays and plan your trips ahead of time.

Trailer Safety

Safe Trailer Use – A Reminder from South Simcoe Police

Trailers come in all shapes and sizes but towing one requires extra care. A trailer adds weight to your vehicle, affects braking distance, and increases the space you need to drive safely. Follow these important safety rules:

Registration & Licensing

  • All trailers must be registered and licensed before use on the road.


Pre-Trip Inspection

  • Check lights, tires, brakes (required for trailers 1,360 kg / 3,000 lb or more), bearings, safety chains, and hitch.
  • Ensure everything is in good working order before every trip.


Attachment & Safety Chains

  • You must have two separate means of attachment between the trailer and your vehicle.
  • Cross safety chains under the tongue to prevent it from hitting the road if the hitch disconnects.
  • Chain hooks must have latches or devices to prevent accidental release.
  • Each chain must have a breaking strength equal to the trailer’s gross weight.


Hitching & Loading

  • Ensure the hitch is secure, with the tongue snug on the ball when locked.
  • Never overload your trailer. Uneven or excessive loads can cause swaying, separation, or mechanical failure.
  • The law requires loose items to be tarped and secured so nothing can fall or fly off.


Penalties

  • Fines for trailer and load offences range from $110 to $390.


Safe travels and remember, you are legally responsible for the trailer you tow.