Cobourg Police – Selective Traffic Enforcement Program (STEP) July 2021

Pete Fisher
3 years ago
• Categories: Police Blotter

Cobourg Police Service focuses on modified motor vehicles and speeding in July.

The Cobourg Police Service (CPS) is committed to keeping our community roadways safe for drivers,
passengers, and pedestrians through education and enforcement. The CPS has enhanced traffic patrols with
the Selective Traffic Enforcement Project (STEP); the project focuses on a different topic each month.

As a result of information and traffic complaints received by CPS regarding motor vehicles revving engines
causing noise and speeding in Cobourg, CPS will focus on increased community education and enforcement,
targeting illegal modifications to vehicles, unnecessary noise violations, and speeding in July.

According to Highway Traffic Act
• The engines of every motor vehicle shall be equipped with a working exhaust system.
• The exhaust system shall prevent the escape of excessive fumes/smoke, plus reduce the creation of
unreasonable noise.
• Operators of motor vehicles causing excessive noise with a damaged or modified exhaust system that
does not comply with the Highway Traffic Act and/or the Environmental Protection Act may be
charged by police or Provincial Enforcement Agency investigators.

In addition to increased speeding enforcement in the Town of Cobourg, officers will conduct enforcement on
modifications to equipment that reduce the safety of the vehicle, such as and not limited to: motor vehicle
suspension, tires (wheels), braking systems, headlights (running lights), brake lights, side mirrors, windshields
(windshield wipers), horns, steering wheels and seatbelts.

Vehicles not in compliance may result in an Out of Service and/or impounded plus charges. Drivers operating
a modified motor vehicle and investigated for such may be charged under various statutes such as the Town
of Cobourg Noise By-Law, the Highway Traffic Act, the Environmental Protection Act, and the Criminal Code of
Canada. Provincial fines start at $65.00 and go up to $2000.00. Some charges include demerit points.

CPS will partner with external enforcement agencies such as the Ministry of Transport, Ministry of
Environment, Ontario Provincial Police and Port Hope Police Service as Joint Forces Enforcement Teams to
conduct traffic stops and traffic safety initiatives (inspection sites/lanes) throughout the month.

CPS would like to remind motorists to be prepare, plan ahead, and be alert while driving to ensure a safe
summer for everyone on the road. Ensure your vehicle stays in good working condition by performing
schedule engine maintenance, ensuring that your motor vehicle safety equipment and exterior lights are in
good working order. Be patient with other road users and plan your route, leaving plenty of time to get to
your destination safely