Toronto police see 200% increase in stunt driving as traffic volumes drop

Toronto has seen a “dramatic drop” in traffic volumes as the COVID-19 pandemic continues, but as roads empty, police say they have witnessed a noticeable increase in speeding tickets and stunt driving.

According to the Toronto Police Service, from March 15 to March 30, there was a 35% increase in speeding tickets and an almost 200% increase in stunt driving compared to the same period last year.

“Taking advantage of low traffic volumes by speeding or stunt driving is not only illegal but threatens the lives of those around you and places an unnecessary pressure on our healthcare system,” Mayor John Tory said.

“I continue to encourage all residents to stay home as much as possible to help stop the spread of COVID-19.”

Starting this week, officers from the Toronto police’s Vision Zero Enforcement Team will begin rotating in daily shifts across the city and patrol for motorists who are speeding or stunt driving.

All red light cameras in the city are active and tickets are being issued to motorists who disobey traffic signals.

“The Toronto Police Service continues to proactively enforce traffic laws in high-collision areas. Our officers will be focused on stopping those drivers who are speeding or stunt driving and making our streets unsafe for other users,” Toronto Police Service Chief Mark Saunders said.

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The city said they are urging drivers to “slow down, stay alert, and obey the rules of the road” in order to keep streets and residents safe and reduce the strain the city’s healthcare system, especially given the current circumstances.

As physical distancing and closures likely remain in Toronto until the end of June, the city’s Medical Officer of Health and all city officials are asking for residents to stay at home as much as possible to help stop the spread of the virus.

And, drivers should stay off the road as much as possible and only travel for essential reasons.

As of April 15, there are 2,670 total coronavirus cases in the city with 121 reported deaths.