If you rely on driving for your daily life, a clean record is a badge of honour. However, getting a stunt driving charge in Ontario can suddenly disrupt everything. What should you do next?
Stunt Driving First Offence Penalties in Ontario
A first-time stunt driving offence in Ontario is a serious matter with substantial penalties. If you’re facing a first-time charge, here’s what you need to know:
- Demerit Points: Accumulation of 6 demerit points.
- Jail Time: Possible jail term of up to 6 months.
- Vehicle Impoundment: Mandatory 14-day vehicle impoundment.
- Fines: Fines range from $2,000 to $10,000, plus a 25% victim surcharge.
- License Suspension: Immediate 30-day license suspension, followed by a 1-3 year suspension upon conviction.
- Mandatory Course: Completion of a driver improvement course is required.
It’s crucial to understand these implications as they can significantly impact your life and future driving privileges.
Stunt Driving in Ontario: Understanding the Implications of a first time offence
Facing a stunt driving charge can be overwhelming. It’s not just about car impounding or insurance hikes; it’s about your personal freedoms. Penalties may include imprisonment for up to 6 months, hefty fines of $2,000 – $10,000, a license suspension of up to 3 years, and 6 demerit points. The extent of these consequences becomes apparent only in court, leaving you with an uncertain future. It’s a lot to process all at once.
Can A Clean Record Help Dismiss My Stunt Driving Charge in Ontario?
Many facing stunt driving charges in Ontario are first-time offenders. A clean record might aid in discussions with the prosecutor, but it’s only one factor. In fact, if you have prior infractions, the situation becomes considerably more serious. A clean record may help lessen the severity of the penalties associated with stunt driving, but its absence can increase them.
Is My First Offence for Stunt Driving in Ontario Likely to Result in Leniency?
Despite sounding reasonable, pleading that this is your first offence is unlikely to lead to dismissal. The pivotal aspect is the factual evidence, such as radar data. The law is clear about first-time offences. The fines between $2000 – $10,000, license suspension of 1 – 3 years, and other penalties are set for first time offenders. Subsequent offences incur longer suspensions of 10 years or more. Pleading your first offence primarily ensures the minimum penalties of Stunt Driving but not a withdrawal of the case.
What are the new penalties for Stunt Driving in Ontario?
The new penalties for Stunt Driving are:
- 1-3 year mandatory license suspension (July 2021)
- an increase to and immediate 30-days roadside license suspension (July 1, 2021). Previous impound was 7 days
- an increase to 14-day vehicle impound (July 1, 2021). Previous impound was 7 days
- Driver improvement course upon conviction (April 2022)
Next Step? Consult a Legal Expert
For many, a stunt driving charge is a first-time experience. It’s crucial to seek advice from a law firm that specializes in such charges. The stakes are high – a conviction could leave you unable to drive for a year or more. This could significantly affect your daily life. Facing a Stunt Driving charge in Ontario is a serious matter. Don’t hesitate. Get legal advice and strategize your defence today.
Can I go to jail for a stunt driving charge?
The Highway Traffic Act empowers the prosecutor to ask for jail time for stunt charges. However, prosecutors will make this determination on many factors such as rate of speed, age, your driving record, etc.
How can I get my stunt driving charge dismissed or withdrawn?
If there’s a BIG mistake with your charge, it may get withdrawn. Even if you’re guilty. These BIG mistakes are called 'Fatal Errors'. Fatal Errors are BIG mistakes that can't be fixed. If your case has a fatal error, there is a possibility your charge could get withdrawn. These Errors are usually found in your Disclosure
