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Rules of the Road
Ontario traffic rules may be a bit different than the ones you're used to. So here's a list of traffic tips to help you get around the province safely.
Bicycles - Bicycles are considered vehicles and must obey the same traffic laws. Bicycles are not allowed on controlled-access highways. For cyclists under the age of 18, it's mandatory to wear a bicycle helmet. However, the Ministry of Transportation (MTO) urges all cyclists, of any age, to wear a helmet. CAA Service - The Canadian Automobile Association (CAA) provides emergency roadside services, auto touring and travel services, discounts, insurance services, along with a number of products. The CAA is connected with several international automobile clubs, including the American Automobile Association(AAA), and members can receive reciprocal benefits. Hitchhiking - Hitchhiking is not permitted on major highways.
Right Turns on Red Lights - You can make right turns on red lights, unless signs indicate you can't. You must come to a full stop, then proceed with caution if the way is clear.
Road Services - The Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) patrol the highways and other areas without municipal police services. You can reach them locally by calling one of the regional toll-free numbers listed on the Ontario Official Road Map. If you are involved in a collision resulting in a personal injury or property damage over $700, you must call the police and remain at the scene of the accident until cleared by the investigating officers. First aid stations and hospitals are clearly posted along the highways. Information on highway and road conditions are available from the Ministry of Transportation (MTO) regional offices. These numbers are in the blue pages of the telephone book. The 24-hour, toll-free number is 1-800-268-4686. In Toronto, call the Road Information Office at (416) 599-9090. School Buses - Traffic travelling in both directions, except divided roads or highways, must stop for a yellow school bus when its red lights are flashing and the stop arm is extended.
Seatbelts - Ontario law requires all adults and children weighing over 18 kg (40 lb.) to be properly restrained using the full seatbelt assembly; which comprises the lap belt and the shoulder belt portions. Children weighing less than 18 kg (40 lb.) must be properly restrained with a child safety seat appropriate to the child's weight. Infants from birth to 9 kg (20 lb.) must travel in a rear-facing infant seat. Toddlers weighing from 9 kg (20 lb.) to 18 kg (40 lb.) must travel in a forward-facing child safety seat. It is recommended that all children under the age of 12 sit in the back seat of a vehicle with a front-seat airbag. Never place a rear-facing infant safety seat in a seating position equipped with an airbag. Speed Limits - Speed limits in Ontario are in kilometres per hour (km/h). Freeways have a speed limit of 100 km/h (62 mph); the Trans-Canada routes 90 km/h. (56 mph). Most other rural highways and country roads have a speed limit of 80 km/h (50 mph). The use of automobile radar detectors is prohibited in Ontario. |