Toronto Increases Fines for Stopping in Intersections by 400 Percent

The City of Toronto is hiking fines for drivers who block intersections when the traffic lights change, something the city is calling “blocking the box.” Fines for improper stops in an intersection will go up by 400 percent from $90 to $450 for most streets. Stopping in an area marked “community safety zone” in Toronto will now cost 317 percent more, up from $120 to $500. Mayor Olivia Chow and Deputy Mayor Jennifer McKelvie made the announcement on Sept. 16. The move is part of a bid to reduce traffic congestion and make roads more efficient, according to a city news release. “Blocking the Box is a serious safety concern that puts vulnerable road users at risk and disrupts traffic flow,” Mayor Chow said. “This fine increase reflects our commitment to ensuring Toronto’s streets are safe for pedestrians and cyclists and reduce congestion that frustrates all road users.”...