Harsh fines could be coming for Toronto drivers caught ‘blocking the box’

Steeper fines could be on the way for drivers in Toronto who get caught stuck in the middle of an intersection at a red light.

It’s known as ‘blocking the box,’ and the city wants to do more to crack down on it, urging the province to raise the fines for anyone who gets caught.

City council has approved a motion from Deputy Mayor Jennifer McKelvie that urges the Ford government to implement higher fines. McKelvie says the bad driving behaviour is costing people time and money and contributes to congestion.

“Tying up an oncoming traffic is one of the most inconsiderate things you can do,” McKelvie said in a statement. “Depending on the intersection, you can end up blocking other drivers trying to proceed legally, riders on transit vehicles, pedestrians, and cyclists.”

It's time to send a strong message that blocking the box will cost you.

This week, City Council approved my push to crack down on drivers caught blocking the box and adding to congestion in Toronto.

Find more details below. pic.twitter.com/SagWBUOe0c

— Jennifer McKelvie (@McKelvieTO) April 2, 2023

‘Blocking the box’ is when a vehicle goes into an intersection and is unable to make it through on a green light due to traffic ahead. In turn, it prevents vehicles travelling in other directions from being able to move through the intersection once they have the right of way.

It “results in a domino effect preventing cross-traffic movement and endangering other travellers by blocking crosswalks and bike lanes,” reads a release from the city.

The current fine for ‘blocking the box’ is $85, but the city wants to see that bumped up to $450. The city wants an even higher fine — increased to $500 from $125 — if someone gets caught ‘blocking the box’ in a community safety zone.

The city has also asked the general manager of transportation services to come up with other solutions beyond fines.