The MTO and Durham Regional Police are targeting modified vehicles during April of 2016. They are harassing drivers that have done nothing wrong. We take pride in our vehicles and use them to express creativity and demonstrate appreciation for the engineering that goes into making these vehicles special. We are being unfairly subjected to roadside inspections because we stand out.

This kind of blitzing sends a bad message especially when focusing on a group of individuals who are hardworking and just want to enjoy their multipurpose vehicles (Off-Road, Hot Rods, Classic Cars, Motorcycles, etc.). After investing more into our vehicles than most individuals spend on required maintenance, we are unduly punished for not fitting into a standard vehicle category.

The Highway Traffic Act (HTA) is extremely vague at best. It is interpreted individually by the ticketing officer even if he or she is incorrect.

Example 1: Fender/Mudguard. The HTA requires “adequate” tire coverage. What is adequate tire coverage? In roadside conversations officers have said that 75% coverage is required, but after reviewing several styles of vehicles most only have 50% of the tire covered. Where is this is measured? At the top of the wheel (Fender), or from the back (Mudguard)?  Is 75% the average between 100% lateral coverage and 50% rear coverage? Many modern vehicles have rear quarter panels that have an integrated fender flare to cover the top of the tire, but are then tapered towards the back thereby exposing more of the tire and are not covered by mudguards. This is how they come from factory.  Several styles of vehicles have exposed rear wheels and are not being pulled over, measured, and inspected. With no specific requirements it is left up to the discretion of the ticketing officer.

Example 2:  Exhaust/Noise. This is interpreted based on the general noise of traffic and is not based on any quantitative test or decibel level. Although it is expected that vehicles with larger engines will make more noise, any sport model vehicle will have the potential to stand out in terms of noise/volume. If this type of vehicle happens to accelerate in an area where there is limited traffic noise, or a region such as a valley or area with sound barriers, it is bound to have more of a presence in terms of sound.  This is often a cause for suspicion and subsequent inspection.   Again, with no specific limits for volume it is left up to the discretion of the ticketing officer.

This is a significant waste of tax-payer’s money. Most people who are ticketed for these offenses will go to court to get it dropped or reduced. Is this a good return on investment when we consider the officer’s time to flag and ticket, the time for the clerk and judge in court, and officer’s time again (should they attend court) all for an $85 ticket that is based on vague legislation?

Sign this petition to help us stop this leaky system and bring fairness back into the system. Just because something looks different does not mean that it is illegal or wrong.