Drivers who block traffic during rush hour could be hit with a $500 fine from city hall if one Toronto councillor has his way.
Coun. Josh Matlow says drivers who stop in traffic and block a lane during peak hours should be fined $500 for holding up traffic. Current fines range from $40 up to $60.
Matlow said Tuesday that raising the fines will deter drivers who hog lanes in order to pick up passengers or grab a coffee.
The councillor said that current fines simply aren't enough to deter people from stopping their vehicles, causing big hold ups and problems for other drivers.
Fines could also be levied for drivers who pull over to the curb in traffic and block bike lanes during the busy times in the morning and afternoon.
Matlow also cited statistics from the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development that put road congestion costs for the city and its surrounding areas at about $3.3 billion annually.
The motion hasn't been voted on at city hall.
With files from The Canadian Press
