On July 12, 2024, the speed limit was permanently increased by 10 km/h on 36% of Ontario’s highway network. A total of 860 kilometers of highway saw a significant change, including one of the busiest highways in North America, Ontario’s Highway 401. Such an increase in the speed limit to 110 km/h has sparked much discussion, and many drivers are asking, “Why is there a new speed limit on the 401?” In this article, we dive into the reasons behind this change, where the new speed limits apply, and what it means for you.

Understanding the Changes

The Minister of Transportation, in accordance with the government of Ontario, decided to increase the speed limit from 100 km/h to 110 km/h on select sections of Highway 401. Raising the speed limit is an effort to improve traffic conditions and reduce travel times throughout the province, as such an improvement has been seen in other Canadian provinces such as Alberta, Manitoba, New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, and Saskatchewan.

Reasons Behind the Speed Limit Increase

1. Modernizing Road Infrastructure: Over the years, Highway 401 has undergone significant upgrades. The improved road conditions and advanced traffic management systems can handle higher speeds more safely.
2. Public Demand: There has been a growing demand from the public to increase speed limits, citing that current limits are outdated and do not reflect modern driving capabilities and vehicle advancements.
3. Pilot Projects: Successful pilot projects in other regions of Ontario showed that higher speed limits did not lead to an increase in accidents. These findings encouraged the government to implement the changes on Highway 401.
4. Economic Benefits: Reducing travel time can have economic benefits, including lower transportation costs for goods and increased productivity for commuters.

Where the Speed Limit is Changed

The increased speed limit does not apply to all highways across Ontario. Areas where the infrastructure and traffic conditions support safer higher-speed travel are where the change has occurred thus far. The specific sections that have seen the increase to 110 km/h are as follows:

• Highway 401, Tilbury, extending the existing 110 km/h zone farther east by seven kilometres
• Highway 401 from Highway 35/115 to Cobourg (around 35 km affected)
• Highway 401 from Colborne to Belleville (around 44 km affected)
• Highway 401 from Belleville to Kingston (around 66 km affected)
• Highway 401 from Highway 16 to the Quebec boundary (around 107 km affected)
• Highway 403 from Woodstock to Brantford (around 26 km affected)
• Highway 403 from Brantford to Hamilton (around 14.5 km affected)
• Highway 406 from Thorold to Welland (around 13 km affected)
• Highway 416 from Hwy 401 to Ottawa (around 70 km affected)
• Highway 69 from Sudbury to French River (around 60 km affected)

As a result of traffic flow studies, road quality, pilot projects, and safety assessments, these stretches of highway were determined to be safe and able to accommodate an increased speed without compromising safety.

What This Means for Drivers

Although an increased speed limit will result in faster commuting times, it will also require drivers to stay vigilant. Higher speeds demand greater attention and adherence to safe driving practices. Here are a few tips:

• Stay Alert: Higher speeds mean less reaction time. Keep your eyes on the road and avoid distractions.
• Maintain Your Vehicle: Ensure your vehicle is in good condition, with proper tire pressure and functioning brakes.
• Follow Traffic Rules: Even with the higher speed limit, it is crucial to follow all other traffic regulations and drive safely.

Legal Implications

Increasing speeds put an elevated level of responsibility on all drivers to adhere to the rules of the road. Accidents can happen at any moment, even to the safest of drivers. In the event of an accident, you may require advice and guidance from a personal injury lawyer. Seeking legal advice is crucial. As such, the lawyers at Bergeron Clifford LLP are here for you if you or a loved one has been involved in an accident on Highway 401.

Contact Us for Legal Support

At Bergeron Clifford LLP, we specialize in personal injury law and are committed to helping you navigate the complexities of the legal system. If you have been affected by an accident on Highway 401 or anywhere in Ontario, our experienced team of professionals is here to provide the support and guidance you need. Contact us today for a consultation.

Burke Derbyshire is a graduate of LaSalle Secondary School in Kingston. Upon graduation, he attended Queens University on an athletic scholarship where he played for the men’s football team. He then completed his law degree at the University of Leicester, United Kingdom, and was a moot court finalist as well as an active member of the Canadian Law Society.

Burke worked at Bergeron Clifford in the summer of 2023 as a summer student, and is now working as an articling student while also completing his NCA exams.

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