Dozens of tow truck drivers parked their trucks on Queens Park Crescent to protest new legislation they say will hurt their business.
Bill 15, which was passed in the Ontario Legislature and received royal assent on Nov. 20, sets an August deadline to reduce car insurance costs by an average of 15 per cent.
However, in addition to the insurance reduction, the legislation will regulate the tow truck industry by adding drivers to the Commercial Vehicle Operator's Registration system from which they were previously exempt.
The system requires drivers to have permission before charging for services, in addition to posting prices, accepting credit card payments, and providing invoices.
The legislation is expected to limit the number of hours tow truck drivers can operate, but the exact limits have yet to be determined. Drivers argue that the law limits their ability to earn a living.
Many tow truck drivers choose to work as much as possible during winter, as they have fewer calls in better weather. Tow truck drivers say the bill will force them to raise prices to compensate for the shortened hours.
Drivers also say it will result in longer response times, as each call can take up to four hours.
Patrick Searle, press secretary for the Ministry of Transportation, said the CVOR will work with representatives of the industry to create a schedule, taking the busy towing season into account.
An estimated 1,500 tow truck operators were expected to attend the protest.
