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Ontario Road Rules Explained
Speed LimitsSpeed limits in Ontario are set by road type and condition — exceeding them is a top cause of collisions and demerit points.Following DistanceKeep a safe following distance — a two-second gap at minimum, longer in poor weather.Right of WayRight-of-way rules decide who goes first at intersections and when yielding to pedestrians.Demerit PointsOntario's demerit point system tracks driving offences and can lead to licence suspension.Alcohol and Driving LimitsZero-tolerance rules for novice drivers and legal limits for fully licensed drivers.SeatbeltsOntario law requires all occupants to wear seatbelts — the driver is responsible.Distracted DrivingUsing a hand-held device while driving is illegal and carries stiff penalties in Ontario.Pedestrians and CrosswalksDrivers must yield to pedestrians at crosswalks, school crossings and intersections.Streetcar and Railway CrossingsHow to share the road safely with streetcars, buses and trains.Turning RulesHow to make safe left and right turns, including lane positioning and signalling.Emergency VehiclesYou must pull over and stop for approaching emergency vehicles with lights and sirens.Parking RulesWhere you may and may not park, and the penalties for illegal parking.Impaired DrivingDriving while impaired by alcohol or drugs is one of the most serious offences in Ontario.Driver FatigueDrowsy driving impairs reaction time as much as alcohol — get rest before long drives.Winter DrivingOntario winters demand lower speeds, winter tires and extra following distance.HeadlightsWhen headlights are required and how to use them properly, including high beams.Traffic LightsWhat each traffic light colour and arrow means, and how to react to signal changes.Pavement MarkingsLane lines, centre lines and edge lines tell you where you may drive and pass.Passing and OvertakingRules for safely passing other vehicles, including when it is illegal to pass.IntersectionsHow to approach, enter and clear intersections safely.Shoulder UseWhen you may use the shoulder, and what to do in a breakdown.School Bus RulesWhen to stop for a school bus with flashing red lights — it's the law.Defensive DrivingScanning ahead, anticipating hazards and keeping an escape route.