Following Too Closely Sec 158(1)

Section 158(1) of the Highway Traffic Act, RSO 1990, c H.8 states: “If you follow a vehicle more closely than is reasonable without having due regard for the speed of the vehicle, the traffic on the roadway and the conditions of the highway” you may be charged under this offence.

Penalty:

• Minimum Fine: $85.00
• Maximum Fine: $500.00
• Demerit Points: 4
• A “major” conviction on your record

Follow Too Closely for Commercial Drivers

This is one of the only offences in the Highway Traffic Act that has a different set of rules for Commercial Motor Vehicles.  The law states that if someone is commercial motor vehicle driver is driving 60 kmph or more, they are REQUIRED to leave 60 meters between them and the vehicle ahead of them.  This becomes very difficult in stop and go traffic, or if the vehicle ahead of them has fluctuating speeds.  Regardless, the charge can be laid in these situations and makes it a little less subjective than the “normal” version of the offence.  This version of the ticket will also carry 5 CVOR points.