Highway 11/17 in Northern Ontario : A Critical Route in Crisis

Nov 25, 2024

A heavy truck on Highway 11/17 in Northern Ontario, illustrating the safety challenges faced by truckers and road users.

Highway 11/17, stretching through Northern Ontario, is a critical segment of the Trans-Canada Highway, connecting the East and West of the country. However, this vital corridor has become a source of fear and frustration for both drivers and local residents alike.

Testimonials from residents reveal deep concerns about safety, infrastructure, and regulation. Coupled with alarming statistics, they paint a troubling picture of this crucial route.

High traffic volume on inadequate roads

Highway 11/17 remains largely a single-lane highway in each direction, a fact that astonishes many given its strategic importance. Unlike other provinces that have expanded the Trans-Canada Highway to four lanes, Ontario lags significantly behind. The lack of regular passing lanes forces drivers to take reckless risks, leading to frequent head-on collisions and unsafe driving practices.

A glaring lack of training for commercial truck drivers

One of the most pressing concerns is the insufficient training of commercial motor vehicle drivers, as reported in the CBC Marketplace investigation. Residents frequently report reckless behavior by these drivers, including hazardous passing maneuvers and a lack of preparedness for winter conditions. This issue is exacerbated by regulatory gaps in training centers, with some accused of issuing licenses without ensuring proper instruction.

Jes Aasmae
“A trucker on Hwy 17 killed my husband 💔.”

Inadequate road maintenance, especially in winter

Winter conditions amplify the dangers on this route. Criticism abounds regarding delayed or insufficient snow removal, often forcing authorities to close entire sections of the highway. Additionally, the narrow lanes in winter exacerbate the risks, leaving vehicles with insufficient space to maneuver safely. In cases of emergency stops, vehicles often encroach into the lane, creating an unprecedented hazard.

Heavy trucks tend to hug the center line to navigate, while poor weather frequently obscures lane markings, further heightening the risk of head-on collisions. These closures and hazards not only disrupt traffic but also jeopardize travelers seeking essential or medical services. The inadequate winter maintenance and design reflect a glaring lack of investment in public safety.

Reckless behavior from all types of drivers

The issues aren’t limited to the lack of proper training for some of the truckers. Numerous accounts highlight impatient, distracted, or aggressive behavior from passenger vehicle drivers, further adding to the chaos. Speeding, tailgating, and dangerous overtaking are common, multiplying the risks of severe accidents.

An under-monitored network

Gaps in police surveillance and regulation enforcement reinforce the sense of insecurity. While dashcams and increased police presence are recommended, their absence across most of Highway 11/17 allows dangerous behaviors to proliferate unchecked.

Although there are weigh stations along the route, they are too often closed, limiting their ability to act as a deterrent. These stations must remain open and be empowered to crack down on illegal truck operators as much as possible, ensuring stricter oversight of commercial vehicles to improve overall safety. We commend the authorities who work tirelessly along this highway; their efforts are vital, but they lack the necessary support and funding to address the full scope of challenges.

Devastating human impact

The human toll on this highway is tragically high. Highway 11/17 is often referred to by locals as the “Highway of Death.” These accidents not only result in fatalities but also cause life-altering injuries and trauma for survivors and their families. Lives are shattered by a system perceived as lax and ineffective.

An highway that fails its communities

Beyond its human cost, Highway 11/17 is a significant barrier to Northern Ontario’s economic development and access to essential services. Fear of traveling on this dangerous route discourages tourism and commercial transport, isolating rural communities and hindering their growth. Moreover, the region’s healthcare infrastructure is stretched thin, forcing residents—especially in emergencies—to travel hundreds of kilometers for care. Expectant mothers, for example, often face perilous journeys to reach facilities equipped for childbirth, increasing the risk of complications. This reality underscores the urgent need for safer infrastructure to support both the wellbeing and prosperity of Northern Ontario’s communities.

Ron Silver
“I need to get from Dryden to Thunder Bay for medical issues, afraid to do in case involved in a crash or road closure.”

An urgent need for infrastructure modernization

Addressing the pervasive issues plaguing Highway 11/17 requires more than incremental fixes—it demands a transformative overhaul. Experts and residents alike stress the need for substantial investments to bring this critical corridor up to modern standards. Proposals extend far beyond doubling lanes or adding passing areas, emphasizing winter-specific design improvements, enhanced lane visibility, and the permanent operation of weigh stations with robust enforcement to eliminate unsafe vehicles.

Rest stops must be expanded and maintained year-round to provide safe havens for drivers, particularly during extreme weather. Furthermore, the integration of advanced monitoring systems, including traffic cameras and real-time condition updates, is essential for proactive safety management. Only through a comprehensive and bold approach can the highway meet the safety, accessibility, and efficiency needs of the communities and industries it serves.

A stark contrast in highway safety

Highway 11/17 in Northern Ontario has earned a reputation for frequent accidents, particularly involving heavy trucks. In 2022, the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) reported over 9,100 collisions involving large trucks across the province, with 71 fatalities—many occurring on routes like Highway 11/17. By comparison, Highway 401, despite higher traffic volumes, has seen significant safety improvements following major upgrades, including lane expansions, concrete median barriers, and improved interchanges. Once known as “Carnage Alley,” sections of Highway 401 have become markedly safer due to these investments.

The contrast highlights the critical need for similar modernization efforts on Highway 11/17. Expanding lanes, improving signage, and adding barriers could drastically reduce the number of accidents and align its safety standards with other major Ontario highways.

A call for government accountability

Provincial and federal governments are under scrutiny for their inaction. While billions are allocated to other road projects, Northern Ontario residents feel neglected. A strong political commitment is essential to prioritize this highway and prevent further tragedies.

The urgency of action cannot be overstated

Despite the well-documented dangers, authorities have largely failed to act. The knowledge of these issues is not new, yet the lack of meaningful intervention raises serious questions. Why are lives being put at risk on a daily basis? Why are citizens too afraid to drive on their own highways, and why are truck drivers leaving the profession? This is not just a matter of infrastructure; it is a matter of human lives and dignity.

Barbara Moores – Nevinger
“Highway 17 near Serpent River. Is a highly signed pedestrian area, small community. There should be flashing lights above the pedestrian signs and maybe safety barriers to protect pedestrians walking. My son was killed by a speeding truck recently, on that stretch. Manitoulin Island has lights above their pedestrian signs, these lights are a secondary precaution. Cameras would also be an idea 💡 spread out along 17 and 11. Way too many loved ones are dying on these highways. Or expand to more lanes, Trans-Canada Highway still runs like small-town roads.”

Continued inaction is unacceptable. The government must take immediate and decisive steps to address these issues before more lives are needlessly lost. Highway 11/17 is far more than just a road—it is a critical lifeline for countless communities and a vital artery for Canada’s economy. Authorities must demonstrate respect not only for their citizens but also for the truckers who keep the supply chain moving. These workers are not mere tools of commerce; they are human beings who deserve safe working conditions and recognition for their essential role. The time to act is not tomorrow—it is now.

Follow Hwy 11/17 kills people – La route 11/17 tue des gens.

Concrete Solutions to Enhance Trucker Safety and Save Lives on Highway 11/17

“Driver Inc” Threaten Road Safety and Economic Fairness

sophie

Nov 24, 2024

As winter approaches and road conditions become more treacherous, the Quebec Trucking Association (ACQ) is making an urgent plea to the government to address the growing issue of incorporated drivers, known as “Driver Inc.”

As winter approaches and road conditions become more treacherous, l’Association du Camionnage du Québec (ACQ) is making an urgent plea to the government to address the growing issue of incorporated drivers, known as “Driver Inc.”

These workers, often undertrained and overexploited, pose significant risks to road safety while undermining the competitiveness of compliant businesses.

Concerns from Drivers and Carriers

A recent survey conducted by the ACQ among 48 member carriers—representing 16,145 employees and operating 9,846 heavy vehicles—revealed alarming data:

85% of companies report their drivers feel unsafe on the road.
Reckless driving (60%) and poorly maintained vehicles (23%) are among the top concerns.
46% of respondents urge Contrôle Routier Québec (CRQ) to increase inspections of licenses, insurance, and vehicle maintenance.

According to the ACQ, incorporated drivers often operate with invalid documents, poorly maintained vehicles, and engage in questionable practices such as abandoning vehicles after accidents or sharing trucks among multiple drivers to bypass regulations.

An Economic Threat to the Industry

Beyond safety issues, the “Driver Inc.” phenomenon is causing substantial financial losses for compliant carriers:

79% of surveyed companies report an average revenue loss of 13.8% due to unfair competition, with some losses reaching as high as 20%.
37% of companies have resorted to layoffs, and 67% are considering workforce reductions if the situation continues, with some planning cuts as early as 2025.

These employers avoid payroll deductions and tax obligations, enabling illegal reductions in operating costs that undermine fair competition.

The Critical Role of CRQ

The ACQ emphasizes that CRQ must play a central role in resolving this crisis. However, current resources are insufficient to produce tangible results. The ACQ suggests:

Stricter enforcement of license, insurance, and maintenance requirements.
Increased inspections at weigh stations to identify non-compliant vehicles.
Sending a clear message to shippers to rebuild trust in legitimate carriers.

A Call to Action for the Government

For over 12 years, the ACQ has been urging the government to address this scheme, which has reportedly cost $2 billion in lost tax revenue. Despite more than 50 meetings with provincial and federal ministries, no concrete measures have been implemented.

The ACQ is calling on the Quebec government to allocate more resources to CRQ to remove incorporated drivers from the roads. It also demands a public stance from both Quebec and Ottawa on this critical issue, which impacts not only the trucking industry but also the safety of all road users.

A Matter of Safety, Economy, and Social Justice

This issue, sitting at the crossroads of safety, economic fairness, and social justice, demands a decisive and immediate response from the government.

STOP DRIVER INC – CTA

A Bill to End the Privatization of Driving Tests in Ontario

sophie

Nov 22, 2024

Michael Mantha, MPP for Algoma-Manitoulin, has introduced a bill, the Safer Driving Tests Act (Ending the Privatization Failure), 2024 to enhance...

Michael Mantha, Member of Provincial Parliament for Algoma-Manitoulin, has introduced the Safer Driving Tests Act (Ending the Privatization Failure), 2024. This bill seeks to eliminate private contracts for the administration of driving tests in Ontario.

If passed, all driving examinations—including those for commercial drivers—would be directly managed by Ontario’s Ministry of Transportation (MTO).

A Privatization Model Under Fire

For years, driving tests in Ontario have been outsourced to Serco, a private company operating under a contract initially signed in 2013 by the then-Liberal government.

In 2023, Ontario’s Auditor General released a report uncovering significant shortcomings: failure to meet contractual obligations, underperformance, and reliance on public funds for services Serco was supposed to self-finance. Despite these findings, the current government extended Serco’s contract until 2025, bypassing a competitive bidding process and without enforcing stricter performance standards.

Michael Mantha argues that the privatization model has failed. Entrusting driving tests to a profit-driven company does not deliver reliable services for Ontarians, according to Mantha. It’s time to restore transparency and accountability in our licensing system.

Addressing Road Safety Concerns

The proposed legislation also tackles road safety issues. Mantha claims the privatized system has contributed to less secure roads, pointing to investigative reports from CBC that uncovered fraudulent practices in commercial driver training. These incidents highlight major weaknesses in the oversight of testing processes.

Ontario stands as an outlier, with most Canadian provinces managing driving tests through government departments or crown corporations. Reverting to a public management model would aim to address geographic disparities in access to testing services, enforce stricter testing protocols, and deliver a more transparent system.

Implications for Commercial Drivers

The bill would also impact commercial drivers, who have faced challenges under the current privatized system. Critics of Serco highlight irregularities in testing procedures and insufficient oversight of safety requirements, particularly for heavy vehicles.

Advocacy groups, such as The Highway 11/17 Kills People, are optimistic about the bill’s potential to enhance safety, especially on high-risk routes. If enacted, the legislation could fundamentally reshape how Ontarians obtain their driving licenses, ensuring fairness, accessibility, and rigorous safety standards.

The bill will be debated in the upcoming legislative session, representing a significant opportunity to reform Ontario’s driving test framework.

Brampton Truck Driver Wanted Following Fatal Collision in Manitoba

sophie

Nov 21, 2024

Brampton Truck Driver Wanted Following Fatal Collision in Manitoba – On November 15, 2024, at approximately 7:05 PM, the Pembina Valley RCMP responded to a fatal two-vehicle collision at the intersection of Provincial Roads 201 and 306, about 13 kilometers west of Altona, Manitoba.

According to the investigation, a semi-trailer truck driven by 25-year-old Navjeet Singh from Brampton, Ontario, was traveling eastbound on Provincial Road 201 when it failed to stop at the intersection with Provincial Road 306.

The truck entered the intersection and collided with a southbound SUV driven by a 35-year-old woman from the Rural Municipality of Rhineland. Tragically, the SUV driver was pronounced dead at the scene. Her eight-year-old passenger, critically injured, was transported to a hospital where she later succumbed to her injuries.

Navjeet Singh sustained minor injuries and was treated and released from the hospital. On November 20, 2024, the RCMP charged him with two counts of Dangerous Operation of a Motor Vehicle Causing Death and one count of Obstructing a Peace Officer. Authorities attempted to locate Singh in Winnipeg without success, leading to the issuance of a Canada-wide warrant for his arrest. Investigators believe he may be in Brampton.

The RCMP is seeking the public’s assistance in locating Navjeet Singh. Anyone with information about his whereabouts is urged to contact the Pembina Valley RCMP at 204-822-5469 or to report anonymously via Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477. Tips can also be submitted securely online at www.manitobacrimestoppers.com.

Jagmeet Grewal and the Fatal Accident on Highway 440: Is 10 Years in Prison Enough?

sophie

Nov 21, 2024

Highway 440 pileup caused by Jagmeet Grewal, involving four fatalities and 15 injuries – fatal accident scene photo.

Jagmeet Grewal and the Fatal Accident on Highway 440: Is 10 Years in Prison Enough? Gilles, Michèle, Sylvain, Robert—four names that resonate as poignant reminders of lives lost, families shattered, and enduring pain following the tragic 2019 Highway 440 accident.

These innocent victims, from diverse walks of life, shared one commonality: being cherished and valued by their loved ones. In Laval, their families gathered to honor their memory as the Crown requested a ten-year prison sentence for Jagmeet Grewal, the truck driver found responsible for the tragedy.

Last Thursday, emotions ran high at the Laval courthouse, where heartrending testimonies laid bare the extent of the losses endured by the victims’ families. On the stand, the grief was palpable, while Jagmeet Grewal, impassive, listened in silence. The 58-year-old was convicted earlier this year of criminal negligence causing death, following an accident where his truck plowed into a line of stopped vehicles without any attempt to brake, triggering a large-scale tragedy.

The Circumstances of the Accident

On August 5, 2019, traffic flowed normally on Highway 440. Road conditions were clear, and drivers, halted in congestion, could not foresee the disaster about to unfold. Jagmeet Grewal, approaching at high speed, showed no reaction, letting his truck crash into the vehicles ahead without slowing down. The impact caused fires, massive destruction, and, most tragically, loss of life.

It later emerged that Jagmeet Grewal should never have been behind the wheel that day. Previously deemed unfit to operate heavy vehicles, he suffered from physical limitations and psychological issues with a history of serious medical conditions. On the day of the accident, he was driving despite an unstable health condition, failing to take his prescribed essential medication, and was incapable of managing such a large vehicle safely.

A Call for a Severe Sentence

For Crown prosecutor Me Simon Blais, this case demands a strong response from the justice system. He argued for a ten-year prison sentence, which he deemed appropriate given the severity of the circumstances and numerous aggravating factors. The proposed sentence, he contended, would serve as a warning to Canadian truck drivers and underscore the transportation industry’s responsibility to protect all road users.

Shared Responsibilities?

During the trial, questions arose about the accountability of the SAAQ (Quebec’s automobile insurance board). Despite a troubling medical history and a prior accident in the U.S. in 2012, Jagmeet Grewal had been granted a Class 1 driver’s license. This error by the SAAQ sparked debates on Quebec’s procedures for assessing professional drivers—a sensitive topic within the industry.

As the final decision looms, two critical questions remain: Will the SAAQ be held accountable for its error, or will it escape scrutiny despite a failure that cost four lives? Can government bodies continue issuing licenses to individuals who pose a public safety risk without consequences? Finally, will the proposed ten-year sentence bring a semblance of justice to the victims’ families and prevent similar errors within the trucking industry?

This verdict could mark a turning point in how driver and authority accountability is addressed in Canada’s road safety landscape.

Young Ontario Truck Driver Faces Up to Two Years in Prison for Hit-and-Run Accident

Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) Adjusts Operating Hours for 35 Land Border Crossings

sophie

Nov 21, 2024

Updated border crossings hours for Canada-US land entry points effective January 6, 2025, enhancing security and optimizing resources.

The Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) has announced changes to operating hours at 35 land border crossings nationwide, effective January 6, 2025.

The new schedules will come into effect at 12:01 a.m. local time.

This decision, made in coordination with the United States, aims to enhance border security on both sides while optimizing resource allocation. By concentrating staff at busier border crossings, the CBSA can better manage traveler and goods processing, as well as conduct necessary inspections.

The United States will also adjust hours at several border crossings, improving coordination between the two countries. This will streamline the return of inadmissible travelers or goods when certain sections of the border are closed.

These adjustments are based on a detailed analysis of traffic patterns, peak periods, and operational needs at border checkpoints. Most affected crossings handle fewer than two vehicles or trucks per hour during the periods that will no longer be covered. Alternative border crossings are available within 100 km of the affected locations.

Updated Operating Hours for Land Border Crossings
(All times are in local time zones.)

Alberta

Del Bonita
Travelers: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., daily

British Columbia

Cascade
Travelers: 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., daily

Nelway
Travelers: 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., daily

Manitoba

Cartwright
Travelers: 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., daily

Coulter
Travelers: 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., daily
Commercial: 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday to Friday (excluding holidays)

Crystal City
Travelers: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., daily

Goodlands
Travelers: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., daily

Gretna
Travelers: 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., daily

Lena
Travelers: 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., daily
Commercial: 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday to Friday (excluding holidays)

Piney
Travelers: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., daily

Snowflake
Travelers: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., daily

South Junction
Travelers: 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., daily

Tolstoi
Travelers: 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., daily

Windygates
Travelers: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., daily

Winkler
Travelers: 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., daily

Quebec

Chartierville
Travelers: 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., daily

Clarenceville
Travelers: 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., daily

Frelighsburg
Travelers: 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., daily

Herdman
Travelers: 6 a.m. to 6 p.m., daily

Hereford Road
Travelers: 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., daily

Highwater
Travelers: 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., daily

Lacolle Route 221
Travelers: 6 a.m. to 10 p.m., daily

Lacolle Route 223
Travelers: 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., daily

Noyan
Travelers: 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., daily

Trout River
Travelers: 6 a.m. to 6 p.m., daily

New Brunswick

Bloomfield
Travelers: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday to Saturday (excluding Canadian and U.S. holidays)
Commercial: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday to Friday (excluding Canadian and U.S. holidays)

Gillespie Portage
Travelers: 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., daily

Fosterville
Travelers: 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., last Monday in May to first Monday in September, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., remainder of the year
Commercial: Same hours as above

St. Croix
Travelers: 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., daily
Commercial: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday to Friday

Saskatchewan

Carievale
Travelers: 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., second Sunday in March to first Saturday in November, 9 a.m. to 7 p.m., remainder of the year

Estevan Highway
Travelers: Same hours as Carievale

Monchy
Travelers: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday to Friday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., remainder of the year
Commercial: Same hours as travelers, excluding holidays

Northgate
Travelers: 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., second Sunday in March to first Saturday in November, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., remainder of the year
Commercial: Same hours as travelers, Monday to Friday (excluding holidays)

Oungre
Travelers: 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., second Sunday in March to first Saturday in November, 9 a.m. to 7 p.m., remainder of the year

West Poplar River
Travelers: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., second Sunday in March to first Saturday in November, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., remainder of the year
Commercial: Same hours as travelers, Monday to Friday (excluding holidays)

Trucking Industry: The Worst Changes According to Truck Drivers

Concrete Solutions to Enhance Trucker Safety and Save Lives on Highway 11/17

sophie

Nov 1, 2024

Concrete solutions are needed to improve training standards, strengthen inspections, and ensure accountability among transport stakeholders, with the aim of securing our roads and saving lives.

Highway 11/17, a vital route in northern Ontario, is increasingly raising concerns over road safety. This section of the Trans-Canada Highway, reduced to a single lane in each direction, presents serious challenges for road users, and truckers, who are becoming increasingly wary of traveling on this route.

Some trucking professionals have even chosen to leave their jobs to avoid driving in this area, while others demand higher pay to compensate for the heightened risks, underscoring the gravity of the situation.

Inadequate Infrastructure

One of the main issues is the lack of passing lanes and safe shoulders along much of Highway 11/17. This configuration restricts options for evasive maneuvers and increases the risk of head-on collisions. Additionally, the scarcity of adequate rest areas forces drivers to travel long distances without safe places to stop, leading to driver fatigue and increasing the likelihood of accidents.

In cases of breakdowns, truckers find it nearly impossible to pull over without their vehicles encroaching on the lane, as the shoulders are often too narrow to accommodate heavy trucks. This issue becomes even more concerning in winter, when snow accumulation further restricts maneuvering space and creates hazardous conditions for all road users.

Training and Oversight of Commercial Vehicle Drivers

The insufficient training of some truck drivers is another significant safety concern. Investigations have revealed that certain driving schools fail to meet required standards, producing drivers who lack the skills, experience, and knowledge necessary to operate heavy trucks safely. Compounding this issue, some fraudulent training centers have even been found issuing licenses to individuals through dishonest means, further jeopardizing road safety. This situation is exacerbated by a lack of rigorous oversight of driver qualifications. While these shortcomings lead to incidents and tragedies on Highway 11/17, their effects resonate nationwide, with fatal accidents unfairly claiming the lives of road users.

Policy Initiatives and Reform Demands

The Ontario New Democratic Party (NDP) has recently voiced concerns over the underutilization of the Shuniah inspection station—a $30 million infrastructure investment made as part of the Ford government’s plan to improve road safety in northern Ontario.

According to Lise Vaugeois, MPP for Thunder Bay–Superior North, this station plays a crucial role in ensuring that commercial vehicles meet safety standards. Positioned strategically on Highway 11/17, this station should serve as a mandatory checkpoint for westbound drivers. However, staffing shortages mean it is often closed, significantly limiting its effectiveness in ensuring road safety on this high-risk route.

The NDP also calls for an equitable distribution of resources for winter road maintenance, highlighting that Highway 11/17 does not receive the same level of service as Ontario’s 400-series highways. This disparity, frequently criticized by truckers, leaves drivers facing dangerous winter conditions, which amplifies the risks on an already hazardous route.

These safety concerns should not be used for political gain. Regardless of party affiliation, ensuring road user safety must be a top priority for all elected officials and citizens. Protecting lives transcends partisan interests, and every stakeholder involved in these decisions shares the responsibility of creating a safer road network for everyone.

Proposed Solutions for Enhanced Safety

Advocacy groups like “Hwy 11/17 kills people” are calling for concrete actions to make this route safer. Some of the suggested solutions include:

Enhanced Inspection Stations: Inspection stations should expand their checks beyond basic weight and cargo security to include rigorous assessments of driver qualifications and licenses. This requires specialized training for inspectors to identify invalid licenses and training deficiencies.
Creation of a National Database: Establishing a centralized database to collect and share information on drivers, transport companies, and training institutions would enable better oversight and swift identification of non-compliant entities. This database could also play a vital role in identifying incorporated drivers and the companies that employ them, an aspect crucial for authorities. By cross-referencing data from roadside inspections with fiscal agency records, authorities could better detect companies exploiting this status to avoid certain tax and legal obligations. This system would also help target drivers with compliance issues, contributing to a safer road network for everyone.
Stakeholder Accountability: It is essential to hold institutions and individuals responsible for issuing non-compliant licenses, as well as employers who hire undertrained drivers, financially accountable for their negligence in road safety. This accountability would create a safer work environment for drivers while offering greater protection to all road users.

While these measures primarily target Highway 11/17, they should be implemented nationwide to improve safety across Canada’s road network. Collaboration among local authorities, transport companies, and advocacy groups is critical for creating sustainable, effective solutions that will ultimately ensure safer driving conditions for everyone.

Although these solutions may not address every challenge, they provide a starting point to tackle part of this vast and complex issue and represent an essential first step in saving lives.

Young Ontario Truck Driver Faces Up to Two Years in Prison for Hit-and-Run Accident

sophie

Oct 31, 2024

Harjot Singh, a 22-year-old Ontario truck driver, could face up to two years in prison after pleading guilty last June to five counts of hit-and-run causing bodily harm.

The case is being heard in the Saint-Hyacinthe courthouse in Quebec, where the Crown prosecutor is pressing for incarceration to meet the goals of public denunciation and deterrence.

The accident took place just over a year ago in Sainte-Hélène-de-Bagot. Singh, a resident of Brampton, Ontario, who was in Canada on a student visa, failed to stop at a mandatory stop sign and collided directly with a family minivan. The young truck driver, who had only obtained his truck license a few months prior, chose to flee the scene without aiding the injured.

The consequences of the accident were severe, both physically and emotionally, for the affected family. The mother was left in a coma and later emerged with significant disabilities. The father sustained multiple fractures and a head injury. The family’s three children were also injured: the youngest, a four-year-old girl, suffered a broken wrist; her five-year-old sister sustained pelvic injuries; and the eldest, a ten-year-old, fractured her knee and suffered numerous bruises.

Singh was intercepted by the Sûreté du Québec (SQ) about ten kilometers away on Highway 20 after witnesses reported that his trailer’s rear axle was damaged and emitting smoke. At the time of his arrest, Singh was engaged in a video call that had been active for at least 26 minutes, which raised questions about his attention while driving. Although it couldn’t be proven that he was actively using the phone at the moment of impact, the evidence highlighted his irresponsible behavior.

In court, Singh, speaking in Punjabi, expressed fear and panic, citing this as his first long-haul trip from Montreal to Quebec City with a heavier load than usual. He conveyed deep regret for his actions. Singh arrived in Canada in 2016 and was relatively new to truck driving.

Despite Singh’s hope to serve his sentence at home, Crown prosecutor Me Émilie Gadbois firmly opposed this, arguing that incarceration is the only appropriate response given the severity of the case. On Wednesday, she reminded the court that similar cases usually result in sentences of 12 to 24 months in prison.

As the final judgment approaches, the family continues to recover from the physical and emotional scars of that traumatic night. For Harjot Singh, the young truck driver, the verdict will bring closure to a lengthy legal process and determine the consequences he will face for his actions that night.

Urgent Risk to Trucking Industry and Working Conditions in Canada

Road Safety on Highway 11/17 Remains a Priority for Ontario’s Provincial NDP

sophie

Oct 22, 2024

The Shuniah inspection station could play a vital role in improving road safety on Highway 11/17, a key transportation route in Northern Ontario, according to the Ontario NDP.

The NDP of Ontario is calling for more frequent operation of the $30 million Shuniah inspection station to improve road safety, particularly on the notoriously dangerous Highway 11/17, a critical route for transportation in Northern Ontario.

This inspection station was initially built as part of the Ford government’s broader initiative to enhance road safety and transportation infrastructure in the north. The highway is known for its challenging conditions, especially during the winter months, when snow, ice, and freezing temperatures increase the risks for drivers.

Thunder Bay–Superior North MPP, Lise Vaugeois, has voiced concerns that the station is not operating as often as it should be, probably due to staffing shortages. According to Vaugeois, this station plays a pivotal role because it is strategically positioned on a route where drivers have no other option but to pass through. Those traveling west on Highway 11/17 cannot avoid this station, making it an ideal checkpoint. This, in her view, underscores the need for more frequent operations to ensure that drivers and vehicles meet safety standards before continuing on this hazardous route.

Additionally, the NDP is advocating for more equitable snow removal services on Highway 11/17, noting that this highway receives far less attention than Ontario’s 400-series highways, which are prioritized for winter maintenance. The disparity in snow clearing leaves Highway 11/17 particularly dangerous during the harsh winter months. Many truck drivers have raised complaints about the poor winter conditions on this route, which has a history of fatal accidents, making it even more of a safety concern for those who rely on it for transport.

The lack of adequate passing lanes and safe shoulders along significant stretches of Highway 11/17 further compounds the risks. This lack of essential infrastructure makes driving conditions even more hazardous, especially for truckers and larger vehicles, which require more space and maneuverability to ensure safe passage.

Moreover, Vaugeois pointed out that in some Northern communities along the route, poor infrastructure forces pedestrians, including children, to walk along or cross the highway in extreme cold. With no sidewalks, these situations are particularly dangerous, especially in winter when visibility is reduced and roads are slick with ice. The lack of basic infrastructure along Highway 11/17 highlights the need for urgent improvements to protect both drivers and pedestrians.

In response to recent fatal collisions in Northwestern Ontario, Vaugeois has also stressed, at the beginning of the current year, the need for tighter regulation of truck driving schools, especially given the growing number of undertrained drivers on the road. She blames inadequate training and insufficient oversight as major contributors to these tragic accidents, noting that only eight inspectors are tasked with supervising over 500 truck driving schools across Ontario. Vaugeois has called for longer training programs and more inspectors to ensure that drivers are fully prepared to handle the demands of driving trucks, particularly on dangerous highways like 11/17.

A recent investigation by CBC News has further underscored these concerns, revealing troubling practices at truck driving schools in Ontario, particularly in Brampton. Hidden cameras captured instances of schools offering training programs significantly shorter than the 103.5 hours required by the Mandatory Entry-Level Training (MELT) program. These schools, in exchange for reduced fees, promise to fast-track licenses without adhering to legal safety requirements. This situation attracts individuals eager to enter the trucking industry quickly, but without the necessary training to ensure they are road-ready.

These inadequately trained drivers present a serious threat to road safety, especially on highways like 11/17, where winter conditions make driving far more challenging. Without proper training, these drivers increase the risks for everyone on the road. Vaugeois and the NDP believe that opening the Shuniah inspection station more frequently would help detect non-compliant vehicles and identify drivers who lack proper credentials or are operating with faulty equipment. This step would significantly improve road safety, not only for truck drivers but for all who use this critical route.

The Ontario NDP will push for these safety measures when the provincial legislature resumes next week, in hopes of reducing accidents and saving lives on Highway 11/17 and beyond.

CBC News on trucker’s training scheme :

Eric Gignac, CEO of Guilbault, Condemns the Injustice of the Driver Inc. Model

sophie

Oct 21, 2024

Eric Gignac discusses the challenges of the Chauffeur Inc. model and its impact on fair competition in the Canadian trucking industry.

Recently, several trucking companies have voiced concerns about the “Driver Inc.” model, which allows drivers to incorporate themselves, and Eric Gignac from Guilbault is among them.

This model raises significant issues in the industry, prompting calls for swift government intervention to restore tax fairness, stop driver exploitation, and ensure healthy competition in the trucking sector.

After hosting Réal Gagnon, who criticized this scheme, a letter was sent to Minister Stephen MacKinnon. MacKinnon responded, and who better than Eric Gignac, CEO of Guilbault, to provide his expert insight on the matter?

“I think I’d like to work in government or communications,” Gignac responds, “because you just copy-paste the same answer and send it to anyone. It’s always the same story. They tell us they’re working hard, maybe they are. The word ‘hard’ might be a bit much. But if they say in their responses that they will find effective and fair solutions to solve the problem… They’ve modified the labor code… Well, look, just enforce the law!”

This is a situation where regulations exist but are not being enforced. The Driver Inc. model conflicts with the tax obligations that companies must comply with. Like every other transportation company in Quebec, and in many parts of Canada, Guilbault fulfills its tax responsibilities by paying source deductions for its employees.

Gignac expresses his frustration with the unfair competition: when companies employing incorporated drivers bid on contracts with discounts of over 20%, it becomes nearly impossible to compete while adhering to existing tax rules.

“We feel like the joke’s on us. Some of my competitors have lost major clients. For me, it’s already started. It’s not huge yet, but we feel the pressure from our clients, asking why we’re 20%, 25% more expensive than others. So, at that point, I pull out my ‘good corporate Canadian citizen’ tape and explain that we pay our taxes, our employees, and we owe nothing to the government. At the end of the month, everything is paid and settled.”

Gignac is clearly agitated by the current situation. According to him, if some companies want to play that game, it will soon be played by two. He even questions whether he should start a division with incorporated drivers to retain his clients. He feels almost forced to lower his prices to stay competitive and keep his employees working, but he knows this strategy is not sustainable in the long run.

While some question the effectiveness of the Association du Camionnage du Québec (ACQ), a Quebec trucking association, and the industry’s mobilization to be heard, Gignac insists that superhuman efforts are being made to provoke change. At the provincial level, authorities often claim the issue is federal.

However, Gignac proposes a solution: by linking the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) with highway inspectors, checks could be carried out at weigh stations, and the information shared with the CRA, and vice-versa. With genuine intent, concrete solutions could be implemented. However, he acknowledges that the provincial government is limited in its actions. As for the federal government, Gignac goes so far as to describe the current administration as a “ghost government,” virtually non-existent in his view.

He highlights that a significant portion of the Liberal Party’s electorate comes from areas like Brampton, with strong support from certain cultural communities, a key source of votes. He clarifies that this is not about racism but asserts that Justin Trudeau and his team need to act quickly to bring about solutions.

Gignac also laments the Canadian Trucking Alliance’s (CTA) lack of power, which should represent the industry’s interests in Ottawa. He notes that the CTA has lost influence, referencing the absence of recent meetings with key figures like Pablo Rodriguez, compared to Marc Cadieux of the ACQ, who has been very active on the “Driver Inc.” issue. The CTA seems too aligned with the opposition, a risky stance given the upcoming political uncertainties.

He concludes by noting that this agitation is not limited to Quebec: associations in Alberta and Saskatchewan are also beginning to voice their discontent; things are heating up.

“The big problem, in my opinion, is twofold. One: For our industry, we need to move towards driver certification in Canada—not just Quebec, but Canada-wide. How to achieve that is still a bit unclear, but it’s a topic that has been discussed for years at the CTA. A professional order. These are issues I’ve heard about at least two or three years ago, as a Quebec representative at the CTA.”

The problem with both provincial and federal governments is that many other sectors, like doctors and construction workers, also use the incorporation model. These groups benefit from the “incorporated” status, creating a precedent that’s hard to ignore. The prevailing thought is that if it’s allowed in one sector, it should be allowed in others. However, tackling this issue could lead to significant revenue recovery for the government—potentially billions of dollars.

Yet, with federal elections approaching next year, followed by provincial elections in two years, there seems to be little political will to make such significant changes.

“I won’t make any friends by saying this, but some trucking influencers out there want to block roads, organize convoys… For me, that’s a no. One thing is for sure. Claude Robert, Michel Robert, Eric Gignac, and David Morneau—we’re not going to abandon our thousands of employees for that. We’re going to fight. Guilbault has been around for 96 years. There’s no way I’m going to shut down my company or start losing money because of an issue with incorporated drivers.”

“We’re going to move, and we’re going to do it intelligently. We mustn’t lose our credibility; we need to handle things in a smart, structured way. Eventually, we’ll reach a point where it will hurt. Truckers like us, companies like ours, we need to strike in the right places.”

To listen to Eric Gignac’s interview on Truck Stop Québec, click here. Please note, the interview was originally conducted in French, and the text provided is an English translation.

Highway 11/17, stretching through Northern Ontario, is a critical segment of the Trans-Canada Highway, connecting the East and West of the country. However, this vital corridor has become a source of fear and frustration for both drivers and local residents alike.

Testimonials from residents reveal deep concerns about safety, infrastructure, and regulation. Coupled with alarming statistics, they paint a troubling picture of this crucial route.

High traffic volume on inadequate roads

A glaring lack of training for commercial truck drivers

Inadequate road maintenance, especially in winter

Reckless behavior from all types of drivers

An under-monitored network

Devastating human impact

An highway that fails its communities

An urgent need for infrastructure modernization

A stark contrast in highway safety

A call for government accountability

The urgency of action cannot be overstated

Read more :

As winter approaches and road conditions become more treacherous, l’Association du Camionnage du Québec (ACQ) is making an urgent plea to the government to address the growing issue of incorporated drivers, known as “Driver Inc.”

These workers, often undertrained and overexploited, pose significant risks to road safety while undermining the competitiveness of compliant businesses.

Concerns from Drivers and Carriers

An Economic Threat to the Industry

The Critical Role of CRQ

A Call to Action for the Government

A Matter of Safety, Economy, and Social Justice

Michael Mantha, Member of Provincial Parliament for Algoma-Manitoulin, has introduced the Safer Driving Tests Act (Ending the Privatization Failure), 2024. This bill seeks to eliminate private contracts for the administration of driving tests in Ontario.

If passed, all driving examinations—including those for commercial drivers—would be directly managed by Ontario’s Ministry of Transportation (MTO).

A Privatization Model Under Fire

Addressing Road Safety Concerns

Implications for Commercial Drivers

Brampton Truck Driver Wanted Following Fatal Collision in Manitoba – On November 15, 2024, at approximately 7:05 PM, the Pembina Valley RCMP responded to a fatal two-vehicle collision at the intersection of Provincial Roads 201 and 306, about 13 kilometers west of Altona, Manitoba.

According to the investigation, a semi-trailer truck driven by 25-year-old Navjeet Singh from Brampton, Ontario, was traveling eastbound on Provincial Road 201 when it failed to stop at the intersection with Provincial Road 306.

Jagmeet Grewal and the Fatal Accident on Highway 440: Is 10 Years in Prison Enough? Gilles, Michèle, Sylvain, Robert—four names that resonate as poignant reminders of lives lost, families shattered, and enduring pain following the tragic 2019 Highway 440 accident.

The Circumstances of the Accident

A Call for a Severe Sentence

Shared Responsibilities?

Read more :

The Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) has announced changes to operating hours at 35 land border crossings nationwide, effective January 6, 2025.

The new schedules will come into effect at 12:01 a.m. local time.

Updated Operating Hours for Land Border Crossings (All times are in local time zones.)

Read more :

Concrete solutions are needed to improve training standards, strengthen inspections, and ensure accountability among transport stakeholders, with the aim of securing our roads and saving lives.

Inadequate Infrastructure

Training and Oversight of Commercial Vehicle Drivers

Policy Initiatives and Reform Demands

Proposed Solutions for Enhanced Safety

Read more :

Harjot Singh, a 22-year-old Ontario truck driver, could face up to two years in prison after pleading guilty last June to five counts of hit-and-run causing bodily harm.

The case is being heard in the Saint-Hyacinthe courthouse in Quebec, where the Crown prosecutor is pressing for incarceration to meet the goals of public denunciation and deterrence.

Read more :

The NDP of Ontario is calling for more frequent operation of the $30 million Shuniah inspection station to improve road safety, particularly on the notoriously dangerous Highway 11/17, a critical route for transportation in Northern Ontario.

CBC News on trucker’s training scheme :

Read more :

Recently, several trucking companies have voiced concerns about the “Driver Inc.” model, which allows drivers to incorporate themselves, and Eric Gignac from Guilbault is among them.

This model raises significant issues in the industry, prompting calls for swift government intervention to restore tax fairness, stop driver exploitation, and ensure healthy competition in the trucking sector.

To listen to Eric Gignac’s interview on Truck Stop Québec, click here. Please note, the interview was originally conducted in French, and the text provided is an English translation.

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Updated Operating Hours for Land Border Crossings
(All times are in local time zones.)