Authorities warn of hazards after charging northern Ont. driver for unmarked load

Ontario Provincial Police conducted a traffic stop of a vehicle in Greater Sudbury, Ont., on August 15, 2025, resulting in a local driver being charged for an improperly marked overhanging load under the Highway Traffic Act. (Ontario Provincial Police/Facebook)

Ontario Provincial Police have charged a 45-year-old driver from Sudbury for a violation related to an overhanging load on a vehicle.

The traffic stop occurred on Aug. 15 within Greater Sudbury city limits, according to the OPP.

Safety requirements outlined

Police advised, in a social media post about the incident, that Ontario law mandates specific safety measures for loads extending more than 1.5 metres beyond the rear of a vehicle. During daylight hours, a bright red or orange flag measuring at least 30 centimetres by 30 centimetres must be attached to the end of the load, and at night or in low visibility conditions, a red light and a red reflector must be used instead of a flag.

Failing to properly mark an overhanging load can result in fines and poses serious road hazards.

Authorities said this traffic stop and subsequent charge is part of the OPP’s ongoing efforts to keep roadways safe.

“Drive safe,” added OPP Const. Rob Lewis in the post.