A staggering number of red light infractions in Toronto has prompted one councillor to demand tougher penalties for drivers.

At a public works committee meeting Wednesday, councillors asked staff to write a report on what changes they would ask of the province.

Coun. Michael Thompson said he wants red-light runners to face increased fines and demerit points - all decisions the province has the last word on.

Thompson said he'd also like the city to install more red light cameras at problem intersections across the city.

The current fine for running a red light is $180 and three demerit points. However, no demerit points are given if a driver is caught on camera because the device doesn't identify the motorist.

According to the city, 11,203 tickets were issued to drivers speeding through red lights from January 1, 2007 to September 30, 2007.

Over the last six years, there were 71,600 red light infractions.

"The vast majority of traffic signal violations are a result of aggressive driving by drivers who put their own priorities or impulses ahead of the safety of others," states a notice of motion moved by Thompson.

"Most of these aggressive acts are preventable and can be significantly reduced through the application of cost effective technology and concerted action by appropriate stakeholders."

The motion asks city council to officially request the Ministry of Transportation to consider:

  • Substantially increasing fines for running red lights
  • Increasing the demerit points for such offences
  • Suspending the driving licenses of those injuring others while driving thorugh a red signal or who are found guilty of multiple infractions

The motion also asks that the city seek advice from Toronto police, the Insurance Bureau of Canada and the Canada Automobile Association for input on what other safety measures could be put in place.

Staff are not expected to finalize their report until February.

Police applaud the use of red light cameras, saying accidents and fatalities have reduced 25 per cent at intersections where the devices have been used.

With a report from CTV's Naomi Parness