Tow truck drivers slow down Toronto commute to protest new auto insurance law

TORONTO – Tow truck drivers are slowing down the commute in the Toronto area today, as an estimated 1,500 of them head to Ontario’s legislature to protest a new auto insurance law.

The drivers are making their way to Queen’s Park from three different locations on major highways (Steeles Avenue and Highway 404, Bovaird Drive and Highway 410 in Brampton and Mavis Road and Highway 401 in Mississauga).

Related: Towing firms propose changes to Ontario auto insurance fraud bill

The province says the new legislation will regulate the tow truck industry and reduce auto insurance rates but tow truck drivers say it hampers their ability to do their job and may ultimately raise prices.

The government says the new law will reduce auto insurance premiums by about 15 per cent by August 2015, allow customers to pay tow truck drivers by credit card and provide itemized billing.

Related: Toronto towing firm charged with fraud after insurer investigation

A similar protest in Brampton on Monday caused widespread delays, and police warned drivers to avoid the downtown area at the time.

The bill passed in the legislature on Nov. 20.