Inspection blitz takes 130 CMVs off the road, northern Ont. police say

The inspections took place at the new MTO commercial vehicle inspection facility in the northwestern Ontario community of Shuniah during the week of April 15. Photos courtesy of the OPP)

Hundreds of drivers were charged in a recent three-day commercial motor vehicle blitz conducted by the Ontario Provincial Police and Ministry of Transportation.

The inspections took place at the new MTO commercial vehicle inspection facility in the northwestern Ontario community of Shuniah during the week of April 15.

“With over 350 CMVs checked and 201 level one commercial vehicle safety alliance inspections, 130 commercial vehicles were taken out of service due to hours of service and equipment violations,” the OPP said in a news release Monday.

In addition, 216 commercial drivers received offence notices under the Highway Traffic Act, while drivers of passenger (and other non-commercial) vehicles were issued 16 charges under the Act.

“The OPP investigates thousands of preventable CMV collisions every year, making this a serious road safety issue,” police said.

“The OPP remains committed to delivering on its Provincial Traffic Safety Strategy, which aims to reduce and prevent injuries and fatalities, and enhance safety on roads, waterways, and trails.”

Staff Sgt. Tim Penfold, the OPP’s regional traffic manager, said CMVs make up a high proportion of vehicle traffic in the northwest.

"We have and will continue to hold drivers of these vehicles to a high standard to mitigate the negative impact of poor driving habits, hours of service violations leading to fatigued drivers, and unsafe vehicles,” Penfold said in the news release.

“Our commitment to maintaining road safety includes ongoing blitzes and employing thorough inspection protocols to further enhance safety standards on our roadways."

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