Community Column by Don Butt (February 2015)

Town of Mono, ON (Don Butt) This month I want to talk about something that only effects drivers when they reach 80.  I’m sure many of our readers have already gone through this. If you haven’t it consists of an instruction class, a written test, and an eye test.


You can study for the test by obtaining an Ontario Drivers  Manual (from the Ministry of Transportation or any CAA  office). The test is multiple choice and if you take your time and choose the answer that makes sense you should be fine. Watch the eye test. If you fail, you will lose your license, as I did. Go to your eye Doctor right away and have him check as recently there have been some fails in error, (due to defective equipment I’m told).

If you are having any difficulty driving, especially at night, have your eye doctor make an appointment with an eye surgeon, as you may need surgery before you can pass your Ministry test. I went through this and waited 8 ½  months before I got my license back. If you notice a problem and see the surgeon first, he can shorten the time by a great deal with less red tape. Please don’t wait ‘til the instructor says I’m sorry but you cannot drive! If the Doctor says you are OK to drive again (must have 75% vision in one eye at least) pick up the special form from the Driver test centre in Orangeville and submit it right away to the Ministry in Toronto .

Safety Tip
Brake smoothly and in straight lines for stability.(this tip comes to you Courtesy of Doug Annett and the Skid Control School at Oakville , ON www.skidcontrolschool.com)

Phone Nos. (a list of valuable numbers to have)
For all emergencies – 911
To report non emergency incidents or bad drivers 1-800-310-1122
Or by cell phone only *677

Road Watch
Our forms for reporting dangerous and aggressive drivers are now attached to our website.If you prefer a paper form or do not have a computer, our forms are available at Mono Plaza and OPP at Primrose. Please use them, the life you may save could be your own or a loved one. Or use the cell number to call direct – *677.

Don Butt is currently the Public Relations and Media Contact for the Mono Community Policing Committee. If you would like more information on anything covered in Don’s Column or would like to see a topic of public interest or safety covered; post a comment below.