Nova Scotia introduces new Traffic Safety Act

Nova Scotia's provincial flag flies on a flagpole in Ottawa on June 30, 2020. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Adrian Wyld

The Nova Scotia government has introduced a new Traffic Safety Act it says will “modernize the rules of the road” and improve safety on roads and highways across the province.

The original Traffic Safety Act, which passed with all-party support in 2018, was intended to replace the Motor Vehicle Act, but the province says it was not proclaimed.

“The new act simplifies how we will administer these changes so we can deliver a modern set of laws years sooner than would otherwise be possible,” said Public Works Minister Fred Tilley in a news release. “These updates respect the intent of the original act by prioritizing the safety of Nova Scotians.”

According to the release, the new act will allow for easier updates and clarify language. It will also:

• protect pedestrians, motorcyclists, construction workers and other vulnerable users
• implement distracted driving rules that address current technology
• create a framework for inclusive cyclist rules of the road in regulations
• 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.

“The proposed Transportation Safety Act recognizes that there are more than just motor vehicles on the road and includes some important safeguards for cyclists and other vulnerable road users,” said Mike Todd, executive director of Cycling Nova Scotia. “As cycling as a mode of transportation and recreation activity continues to grow in Nova Scotia, we look forward to working with the Nova Scotia government to improve road safety for all users.”

In addition to the new legislation, the province says department staff have been working to modernize the systems that support the Registry of Motor Vehicles and improve services for citizens.

The province says it will consult directly with partners and other interest groups over the coming months, and the act will be proclaimed and implemented in early 2026.

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