Joint Highway Safety Operation Removes 16 Commercial Vehicles, Recovers Stolen Car

A joint highway safety initiative earlier this week led to 16 commercial vehicles being taken off the road and the recovery of a stolen vehicle.

On Monday, September 29, officers from the OPP, Ontario Ministry of Transportation (MTO), Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA), and Sûreté du Québec focused enforcement efforts near the Lancaster MTO Inspection Station, close to the Ontario/Quebec border.

Officials were checking for mechanical defects, improper documentation, impaired drivers, and any other violations that could compromise road safety.

More than 200 commercial vehicles were inspected. As a result of detailed safety checks, 16 vehicles — including five tractor-trailers — were removed from service due to mechanical or safety-related issues.

Two commercial vehicles were caught deliberately avoiding the inspection station. They were escorted back for inspection, which led to charges related to their Commercial Vehicle Operator’s Registration (CVOR).

Officers also helped recover a stolen vehicle on the highway. The investigation is ongoing, but the driver has already been charged with stunt driving.

“This is an excellent example of our agencies working together to ensure everyone’s safety on the roads. While this initiative focused on commercial vehicles, we want to remind all drivers that safety is your responsibility too. Slow down, wear your seatbelt, and keep your eyes on the road — not your phone.”

— Chief Superintendent Lisa Wilhelm, OPP East Region Headquarters