Ottawa, Ontario — May 30, 2016 — An Ottawa area tow truck driver has been charged under Ontario’s stunt driving legislation for racing to the scene of a motor vehicle collision in Orleans.
According to a statement from Ottawa Police Service, on Friday, May 27, 2016 at 5:30 p.m., the tow truck was seen traveling at a high rate of speed southbound on Tenth Line Rd nearly colliding with a responding Ottawa Fire Services vehicle. The tow truck then proceeded to “tail” the fire truck responding to the collision scene on a priority weaving through dense traffic.
The actions of the tow operator created an even more dangerous situation as the tow truck was concealed from public view by the larger fire vehicle; and the fact that the public does not expect a tow truck to when merging back into a lane of traffic.
Amado Wehbe, 36 years old, of Ottawa was charged with racing a vehicle, following too close and failing to surrender his license. His driver’s license was suspended for seven days and his truck was impounded for seven days.
“This incident should serve as a reminder to all tow operators to obey by the City of Ottawa Bylaw and the Highway Traffic Act by not attending collision scenes unless summoned by an involved party or the police,” said Sgt. John Kiss, Impaired Driving Countermeasures and Impounded Vehicles Coordinator, Ottawa Police. “Putting the public at risk will simply not be tolerated.”
Racing a Motor Vehicle/Stunt Driving levies a maximum fine of $10,000 and a minimum driver’s license suspension of two years. In extreme circumstances, a violator could face a maximum term of imprisonment of six months.
