News Release Archive
BUSINESS/CONSUMER SERVICES--FINES INCREASED FOR UNINSURED DRIVERS ----------------------------------------------------------------- Drivers who operate their vehicles without insurance will risk higher fines under amendments to the provincial Motor Vehicle Act introduced today, said Sandy Jolly, minister of Business and Consumer Services. The minimum fine for a first offence will increase to $750 from $250. For second and third offences, the minimum fines will be $1,500 and $3,000 respectively. "Accidents involving uninsured drivers cost over $3.5 million a year in Nova Scotia," Ms. Jolly said. "This cost is passed on to consumers in the form of higher insurance premiums. It is in everyone's interests that there be a strong deterrence to driving without insurance." Don Forgeron of the Insurance Bureau of Canada said his organization supports the direction of the Nova Scotia government. "The IBC has been pressing for higher fines for some time and we are pleased that government is taking stronger action against uninsured drivers," he said. -30- Contact: David MacNeil 902-424-2933 trp Apr. 11, 1997 - 10:45 a.m.