New Ontario Bill Could Boost Demand for Driveway Bollards as Auto Theft Crackdown Intensifies
The Ontario government is taking significant steps in the battle against car theft with newly proposed legislation that would give police increased powers to search for and seize electronic devices used by car thieves. Transportation Minister Prabmeet Sarkaria announced Tuesday that the province will soon introduce amendments to the Highway Traffic Act targeting key fob programming devices, scanners, and smartphone apps used in vehicle thefts.
“This will give police the strong tools they need to keep these devices off the streets,” Sarkaria stated at a Brampton news conference, emphasizing that “anyone using these devices to steal a vehicle will face the full consequences of their actions.” The legislation would exempt legitimate use by auto dealers, repair services, and roadside assistance providers.
Car Theft Trends and Government Response
While auto thefts in Ontario have decreased by 16 percent in 2024 compared to 2023, the growing trend of thieves using keyless technology remains a significant concern. The province is also establishing a dedicated team to support police in car theft hotspots including Toronto, Ottawa, London, Brampton, Newmarket, Durham, and Windsor—building upon the provincial carjacking task force created in fall 2023.
Physical Protection: Driveway Bollards
For homeowners concerned about car security, these legislative developments highlight the importance of physical protection measures. Driveway bollards provide an essential layer of security against both traditional and high-tech auto theft methods. While electronic anti-theft measures can be circumvented by sophisticated thieves using the very devices this legislation targets, driveway bollards provide protection that electronic countermeasures simply cannot match.
How Driveway Bollards Counter Electronic Theft
Driveway bollards present a straightforward solution that works regardless of the electronic tactics used by thieves. As law enforcement works to remove illegal electronic devices from circulation, homeowners can take immediate action by installing driveway bollards. Even if a thief successfully bypasses a vehicle’s electronic security using sophisticated tools, they still cannot drive away if driveway bollards block the exit path.
Rising Demand for Physical Security Solutions
The effectiveness of driveway bollards as a theft prevention measure becomes increasingly apparent as thieves adopt more sophisticated electronic methods. With retractable, removable, and fixed options available, homeowners can select bollard systems that provide security without compromising on aesthetics or convenience. The protection they offer extends beyond electronic exploitation to prevent traditional theft methods and even carjacking scenarios.
Secure Your Vehicle Now
For homeowners concerned about protecting their vehicles, especially those living in identified hotspot regions, now is the time to consider driveway bollard installation. While the proposed legislation represents a significant step forward in combating auto theft, proactive physical protection measures remain an important part of comprehensive vehicle security.
To learn more about protecting your vehicle with professional-grade driveway bollards, contact Bollard Boys GTA for a personalized security assessment and installation quote. With the right combination of electronic and physical security measures, Toronto homeowners can significantly reduce their risk of becoming the next auto theft statistic.
