With spring in the air and warmer temperatures forthcoming, people are spending more time outside, and the familiar sounds of noisy mufflers and modified vehicles are unfortunately also increasing as well.
At this time of year, it is common for the Medicine Hat Police Service (MHPS) to receive an increased number of complaints relating to noisy vehicles. To proactively address this concern, the MHPS Traffic Unit officers have provided training to front-line officers to ensure they can effectively identify and investigate noisy vehicle violations. In addition, this year the Municipal Bylaw Enforcement Section has been provided training on noisy vehicle enforcement which will provide additional resources for enforcement of the legislation.
Over the coming months, the MHPS will be conducting enhanced targeted enforcement, with a focus on modified vehicles, and loud vehicles. The safety of all road users is important to the MHPS and through this enforcement initiative the goal is to reduce the number of problem vehicles and curb aggressive driving behavior that is causing disruptive noise throughout the community.
Vehicle owners who modify their exhaust systems, have inadequate baffles, or intentionally cause the vehicles to be unnecessarily loud may be subject to a $162 fine.
To report a concern about a noisy vehicle, community members can submit a Traffic Tip online via the MHPS website or the MHPS mobile app. The MHPS mobile app is free to download and available for both Apple and android devices. Tipsters should be prepared to provide detailed information to the tip line including vehicle descriptions and license plates when possible.
Media Contact:
Sgt. Stacey Fishley
Traffic Unit
Medicine Hat Police Service
Ph: 403-529-8471