MOTORIST CHARGED AFTER BREAKING DOWN ON CLOSED ROAD

Mark Clairmont | MuskokaTODAY.com

BRACEBRIDGE — A driver who broke down on a flooded road — and tied up provincial police and military police who had to rescue stranded passengers — has been charged with driving on a closed road.

Provincial police say this afternoon that they charged a motorist after a small car drove past the “Road Closed” sign on River Road in Bracebridge.

After entering water the vehicle stalled when flood waters overtook the engine.

Resources from both Military Police and the OPP were tied up rescuing the stranded passengers, and a tow truck had to be contacted for the crippled vehicle.

Further investigation revealed that the driver of the vehicle was operating under a suspended drivers licence and she was charged with both driving on a closed Road and driving under suspension.

OPP and military police had to rescue passengers on River Road after a small car broke down in the water on a closed road. The driver was charged with trespassing on a closed road.

Police would like to remind motorists to stay off of closed roads, they’re closed for a reason. The flood water hides washed out sections of roadway, fast moving currents can carry a vehicle away. In either situation the occupants are in severe danger of injury and loss of life.

Driving on a closed road is an offence under the Highway Traffic Act.

Drivers found on closed roads not only could receive a fine, they may find that any damages they incur aren’t covered by their vehicles insurance.

Most vehicles on the road are not designed to run in more than a few inches of water, damage from deep water can be devastating.

The OPP urge motorists to comply with road closures.