Two drivers are facing charges after being stopped minutes apart in Barrie’s north end for separate traffic violations that police say posed safety risks.
Officers were patrolling near Georgian Drive and Duckworth Street shortly before 5:00 p.m. on Friday, March 20th when they observed an SUV moving slowly through an intersection with hazard lights on, causing traffic to back up. The vehicle eventually stopped in an active lane, prompting officers to intervene. A records check revealed the vehicle had unconfirmed insurance, an expired registration and a registered owner listed as unlicensed. The 27-year-old Toronto driver was charged with:
- Operate a motor vehicle without insurance
- Drive motor vehicle – no licence
- Drive motor vehicle, no currently validated permit
While officers were still on scene, they observed a second incident involving an ambulance exiting Highway 400 with lights and sirens activated. A second SUV continued through the intersection ahead of the ambulance despite other vehicles yielding. Officers conducted a traffic stop and determined the vehicle also had unconfirmed insurance and an expired registration. The 29-year-old Barrie driver was charged with:
- Operate a motor vehicle without insurance
- Drive motor vehicle, no currently validated permit
- Fail to stop – nearest curb – for emergency vehicle
Barrie Police say both incidents highlight how seemingly routine traffic violations can create dangerous situations for other motorists and emergency responders.
