Nova Scotians will be safer and have a modern set of rules for provincial roads and highways when the new Traffic Safety Act takes effect October 19.
The first set of regulations under the act were released October 7. They prioritize protections for vulnerable road users, including extended use of child car seats, a law to address dooring of oncoming traffic, allowances for emergency vehicles and tow trucks, and establishing bike lane rules.
The new act will allow for easier updates and clarify language. The regulations will also:
– implement distracted driving rules that address current technology
– create a framework for inclusive cyclist rules of the road
– update language and responsibilities for municipal traffic authorities
– create a framework to improve child passenger safety, driver visibility and vehicle condition standards
– allow for clearer rules for emergency vehicles, school buses and emerging vehicle types.
It will replace the Motor Vehicle Act, which has been in place since the early 1900s. The Traffic Safety Act has greater flexibility, enabling government to respond more quickly to modern and evolving transportation needs.
The government has also been working to modernize the systems that support the Registry of Motor Vehicles and improve services for the public. Additional regulations will be developed as consultations continue with law enforcement, municipalities, industry and other partners.
Additional resources
More information about the Traffic Safety Act and details about the new rules: https://novascotia.ca/tsa
The new regulations are available at: https://novascotia.ca/just/regulations/regsbyact.htm#traffic
