For Immediate Release
March 2, 2011
MPP DUNLOP INTRODUCES PRIVATE MEMBER’S BILL
TO PROTECT TOW TRUCK OPERATORS
(Queen’s Park) – Today, PC Community Safety Critic Garfield Dunlop (MPP, Simcoe North) introduced his Private Member’s Bill, the Highway Traffic Amendment Act (Roadside Assistance Vehicles), 2011.
Dunlop’s Bill would amend the Highway Traffic Act, Section 159 (2) & (3) to include tow truck operators and police department vehicles with flashing amber lights to the current list of roadside assistance vehicles.
“A simple amendment to Ontario’s Highway Traffic Act will help protect the 4,500 tow truck operators in Ontario like similar legislation in British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba and thirty-nine US states,” said Dunlop. “Ontarians need to recognize the dangers these workers face daily and give them the tools to work in a safer environment.”
“Everyone deserves a safe place to work. That is why CAA is calling for changes to the Highway Traffic Act," said Nick Parks, President and CEO of CAA South Central Ontario. "Including tow truck operators in the Slow Down, Move Over Legislation will recognize the dangers these drivers face every day and will help prevent crashes on Ontario highways, reduce injuries and save lives."
Tow truck operators and other roadside assistance workers are severely injured or killed each year while working along the side of our highways. The success of this initiative will not only give these workers a safer place to work but will also protect motorists.
“I hope that all parties will support me on this very important safety initiative, which will provide the protection that these workers deserve,” added Dunlop.
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Contact:
Garfield Dunlop, MPP
(705) 327-4500 cell
Christine Hogarth, Manger of Government Relations
CAA South Central Ontario
416-567-7203 cell |
