Police Urge Public to Stop Giving Cash to Highway Median Panhandlers
As summer traffic increases across North Bay, the Ontario Provincial Police and the North Bay Police Service are reminding drivers and pedestrians about the safety risks linked to soliciting near busy intersections and roadways. Police say these situations can endanger both people asking for help and motorists travelling through high-traffic areas.
Safer Streets Initiative Continues
The reminder is part of the Safer Streets Initiative, which was launched in 2024 by the OPP and NBPS in partnership with community agencies.
The initiative focuses on public education around roadside solicitation and encourages safer ways to support vulnerable people in the community.
Police Still Seeing Soliciting in High-Traffic Areas
Despite ongoing awareness efforts, police say officers continue to see people soliciting at busy intersections across North Bay.
According to the OPP, these interactions can distract drivers, increase the chance of collisions and place vulnerable people dangerously close to moving vehicles.
Drivers Asked Not to Stop at Intersections
Police acknowledge that many residents want to help people who may be struggling.
However, they warn that stopping in traffic to hand over money, food or other items can create unexpected safety risks for everyone nearby, including the person receiving help, other drivers and pedestrians.
Safer Ways to Support People in Need
Instead of giving directly at intersections, residents are being encouraged to donate to or support local service providers.
Police say community organizations can offer assistance in a safer, more coordinated and sustainable way.
This approach helps vulnerable residents while reducing the risk of roadside collisions or dangerous traffic disruptions.
Ontario Safe Streets Act Applies
Under Ontario’s Safe Streets Act, certain forms of solicitation in or near roadways may be prohibited when they create a public safety risk.
The law also lists offences related to aggressive solicitation and soliciting people in vehicles on roadways.
Education Comes Before Enforcement
The OPP and NBPS say their main focus remains education and prevention.
However, enforcement may be used when officers identify serious safety concerns or repeated behaviour that puts people at risk.
The OPP and North Bay Police Service are asking the public to avoid roadside giving at busy intersections and instead support local agencies that can help vulnerable people safely.
While the desire to help is understandable, police say stopping in traffic can create dangerous distractions and collision risks.
Through the Safer Streets Initiative, officials hope to protect motorists, pedestrians and those seeking support while promoting safer ways to give.
