What Happens at the Roadside When You’re Pulled Over for Stunt Driving?
When an officer suspects stunt driving, they’ll typically pull you over and ask for your licence, registration, and insurance. They’ll likely ask you questions about your speed, your driving behaviour, and whether you understood what you were doing. The critical thing here: anything you say can be used against you in court.
Many people panic and admit guilt or provide detailed explanations. This is a mistake. You have the right to remain silent. Politely tell the officer, “I’d like to speak with a legal representative before answering any questions.” You don’t need to be rude or difficult. Just keep it simple and don’t volunteer information.
The officer will issue you a summons or Provincial Offences Notice. This document tells you when and where you need to appear in court. Keep this document somewhere safe. It’s your evidence of the charges and the court date.
Your 30-Day Licence Suspension: What You Can and Can’t Do
Here’s one of the most immediate consequences: your licence is suspended for 30 days, effective immediately. This suspension happens automatically when you’re charged—before you even go to court. For many people, this is devastating. You might not be able to get to work, drive your kids to school, or manage basic responsibilities.
During this 30-day period, you cannot drive, period. Not for work, not for emergencies, not for anything. If you drive during the suspension, you’re committing a separate offence that could result in additional charges, a fine of $500 to $1,000, and even jail time in extreme cases.
The good news? This 30-day suspension is automatic and temporary. Once it ends, you get your licence back — unless the court later imposes additional penalties. But your stunt driving case might take several months to resolve, and if you’re convicted, you could face a much longer suspension (up to 3 years). This is why fighting the charge is so important.
Your Vehicle Is Impounded for 14 Days: Here’s What That Means
When you’re charged with stunt driving, your vehicle is automatically impounded for 14 days. This isn’t a suggestion. The officer will arrange for your car to be towed to an impound lot, and you won’t be driving it home that night.
The impound lot will charge you storage fees, typically $25 to $40 per day. For a 14-day impound, that’s $350 to $560 in storage fees alone. Plus, you’ll pay the towing fee (usually $150 to $300). These costs add up fast, and they’re on top of any fines or legal fees.
You cannot remove your vehicle from the impound during the 14-day period. You’ll have to wait the full time, then arrange to pick it up, pay all the fees, and take it home. If your family member or friend wants to pick it up for you after day 14, they’ll need proper documentation and authorization.
Picking Up Your Vehicle After the 14-Day Impound
After 14 days, you can reclaim your vehicle. But you’ll need to do this in person (or have someone authorized pick it up for you), and you need to pay all outstanding fees. Bring:
- A valid driver’s licence (yours, or the authorized person’s)
- Proof of ownership (registration or title)
- Payment for storage and towing fees
- Insurance documentation
Call the impound lot in advance to confirm the exact fees and hours. Some impound lots have limited hours, and you don’t want to show up at 6 PM only to find out they close at 5 PM.
Here’s something critical: your insurance may be cancelled or suspended when your vehicle is impounded. When you pick up your vehicle, make sure your insurance is active before you drive it anywhere. If you drive an uninsured vehicle, you’ll face additional charges and penalties.
Getting Your Licence Back at ServiceOntario After the 30-Day Suspension Ends
After your 30-day suspension expires, your licence isn’t automatically reinstated. You need to actively restore it. Visit any ServiceOntario office with:
- Your Ontario PHOTO card or valid ID
- Proof of address (utility bill, lease agreement)
- Your driver’s licence (if you have it)
- Payment for the reinstatement fee (currently $20.10)
This process takes about 15 minutes. Once you complete it, you can drive immediately (as long as your 30-day suspension period has actually ended). Don’t skip this step. If you try to drive without reinstating your licence, you’re driving with a suspended licence, which is a separate offence.
Keep your receipt from ServiceOntario. If you’re pulled over before you receive your new card in the mail, you can show the receipt as proof that your licence is restored.
Preparing for Court: The First Steps You Must Take Today
Your court date is printed on the summons. This date is not negotiable, and you must appear. Failing to appear is a separate offence that can result in a warrant for your arrest.
Here’s what you need to do before that court date:
- Document everything. Write down exactly what happened. Where were you? What speed were you going? What was the weather like? What road conditions existed? This information helps your legal representative understand your case.
- Gather evidence. If there were witnesses, get their contact information. If your vehicle has dashcam footage, preserve it. If you have photos of the road conditions, weather, or signage, save them.
- Understand your charges. Stunt driving under section 172 of the Highway Traffic Act isn’t just about speed. It includes dangerous driving, racing, driving without due care, or performing stunts. Know exactly what the officer is alleging.
- Do NOT contact the officer or prosecutor. Never try to explain your side directly. Anything you say can be used against you. Let your legal representative handle all communication.
- Get a legal representative immediately. This is non-negotiable. Your case is too serious to handle alone.
Why You Need a Legal Representative Right Now
You might be tempted to handle this alone. You might think you can just go to court, explain what happened, and the judge will understand. This is a serious mistake. Stunt driving cases are complex, and the consequences are severe.
A qualified legal representative can:
- Review the officer’s evidence and identify weaknesses
- Challenge how the charge was laid and whether procedures were followed correctly
- Negotiate with the Crown prosecutor to withdraw or reduce charges
- Prepare you for cross-examination if the case goes to trial
- Present the best possible arguments to minimize penalties if you are convicted
Remember: 48.3% of disposed stunt driving charges in Ontario are withdrawn before or at trial. That’s nearly one in two cases. Your case might be one of them — but only if you have proper legal representation from day one.
How Will This Affect Your Insurance?
A stunt driving conviction will devastate your insurance rates. If you’re convicted, your insurer will classify you as a high-risk driver. Your premiums will increase by 50% to 100% or more for at least the next five years. Some insurers will cancel your policy entirely.
But here’s the critical part: the conviction is only permanent if you’re found guilty. If the charge is withdrawn or reduced to a simple speeding ticket, your insurance impact is minimal. This is another reason why fighting the charge aggressively is worth the investment in legal help.
After a conviction, you might need to use a high-risk insurer for several years. Your annual insurance costs could increase by thousands of dollars. This compounds the financial impact of any fines imposed by the court.
What Our Clients Say About Fighting Stunt Driving Charges
Jon helped in removing stunt ticket and left with only speeding ticket. Thanks Jon for the help.
— Jasper Lee
Jasper’s case is typical of what’s possible. A stunt driving charge reduced to a speeding ticket means avoiding the worst penalties and protecting your insurance.
I want to take a moment to express my gratitude for the exceptional service provided by Jon in my brother-in-law’s stunt driving case. From the very beginning, they demonstrated a deep understanding of the law and a commitment to achieving the best possible outcome for us. Their expertise and strategic approach were evident throughout the process, and they navigated the complexities of the case with professionalism and skill. Thanks to their hard work and dedication, we were able to secure a favorable resolution. I highly recommend their services to anyone in need of legal assistance.
— Harman Bains
Harman’s case shows how NextLaw approaches stunt driving defence strategically and comprehensively.
This law firm is definitely the firm you should choose to represent you if not, a firm you should consider. They are very nice and also efficient and professional. I had a stunt driving charge for going 142 in a 80km zone and Jon at next law managed to get the stunt driving charge dropped and turned it into just a speeding ticket. I ended up only getting a 30 day license suspension instead of 1-3 years and only paid $700 for the ticket instead of a $2000-$10000 fine. I am endlessly grateful for their efforts and service.
— KarinaG_ 250
KarinaG_ faced a severe charge (142 in an 80 km/h zone) but achieved an exceptional outcome. That’s the difference professional representation makes.
Called John at the midst of a crisis and from the very first moment we spoke he outlined the steps that we are going to take and what the process is going to look like. I immediately felt better after speaking with John. He knows his stuff and most importantly he saved my career and my insurance. Thank you John 10/10
— D
D’s experience captures what many clients tell us: clarity and confidence from the first call changes everything.
Nextlaw got me the results I needed. I was really worried about my stunt driving charge, but Jon made the whole thing easier. I’m very happy with how it turned out.
— Grant Fiddes
Grant had serious concerns, but professional guidance made the process manageable and the outcome positive.
Jon explained everything clearly and made the whole process stress-free. Jon was able to get my stunt driving charge reduced to a simple speeding ticket, which was a huge relief. He was quick to respond to my questions and got my case resolved faster than I thought. I highly recommend nextlaw if you’re dealing with stunt driving charges. Thank you so much
— Alison Rosenblatt
Alison’s case demonstrates NextLaw’s commitment to clear communication and fast resolution.
Ontario Courts That Handle Stunt Driving Cases
Your stunt driving case will be heard at a Provincial Offences Court in your jurisdiction. Here are the main courts across Ontario where stunt driving charges are prosecuted:
- Barrie Provincial Offences Court — 45 Cedar Pointe Drive, Barrie, ON
- Brampton Provincial Offences Court — 5 Ray Lawson Blvd, Brampton, ON
- Durham Provincial Offences Court (Whitby) — 605 Rossland Road East, Whitby, ON
- Hamilton Provincial Offences Court — 50 Main Street East, Hamilton, ON
- Waterloo Region Provincial Offences Court (Kitchener) — 77 Queen Street North, Kitchener, ON
- Ottawa Provincial Offences Court — 100 Constellation Drive, Ottawa, ON
- Toronto Provincial Offences Court (Old City Hall) — 60 Queen Street West, Toronto, ON
- York Region Provincial Offences Court (Newmarket) — 50 Eagle Street West, Newmarket, ON
Your summons will specify which court you need to appear at. Arrive at least 30 minutes early. Bring all documentation: your summons, your driver’s licence, and any evidence you’ve gathered. If you have a legal representative, they’ll guide you through the courthouse procedures.
Ontario Stunt Driving Statistics: What the Numbers Show
Understanding the scope of stunt driving enforcement in Ontario helps you see that your case is serious, but also that you’re not alone. Here are the real numbers from October 2024 to September 2025:
| Region | Charges Laid |
|---|---|
| Provincial Total | 11,284 |
| York Region | 1,226 |
| Brampton | 1,000 |
| Toronto | 718 |
| Mississauga | 778 |
| Waterloo | 656 |
| Barrie | 660 |
| Hamilton | 317 |
York Region, Brampton, and Toronto account for the highest volumes. This means these courts have extensive experience with stunt driving cases — both prosecutors and judges see these charges regularly. Your legal representative’s familiarity with your specific court makes a significant difference.
What NextLaw Can Do for Your Stunt Driving Case
Jonathan Cohen, Partner at NextLaw, has handled hundreds of stunt driving cases across Ontario. We understand the procedures, we know the prosecutors, and we have a proven track record of getting charges withdrawn or significantly reduced.
Our approach is comprehensive. We don’t just show up at court and see what happens. We investigate your case from the beginning, looking for procedural errors, challenging the evidence, and building the strongest possible defence. We also communicate with the Crown prosecutor before trial to explore whether the charge can be withdrawn or reduced.
Our clients repeatedly tell us that having professional representation transforms their experience. As Grant Fiddes said, “Jon made the whole thing easier.” That’s our commitment to you. We’ll handle the legal complexity so you can focus on your life.
We also work to minimize the financial impact. The more aggressively we fight the charge, the better your outcomes on insurance, licence suspensions, fines, and your driving record.
Frequently Asked Questions About Stunt Driving in Ontario
What should I do immediately after being charged with stunt driving?
First, don’t talk to anyone about the charge except your legal representative. Second, gather documentation: your summons, photos of the scene, the officer’s badge number if you have it, and any witness contact information. Third, contact a legal representative today. Don’t wait. The sooner you get professional help, the more options you’ll have.
Can I drive during the 30-day suspension?
No. Your licence is automatically suspended for 30 days when you’re charged. If you drive during this period, you’re committing a separate offence. After the 30 days, you need to visit ServiceOntario to reinstate your licence before you can drive again.
How much will this cost me in total?
The financial impact includes: vehicle impound fees ($350 to $560), towing fees ($150 to $300), ServiceOntario reinstatement fee ($20.10), legal representation fees, and potential fines if convicted. A conviction can also increase your insurance premiums by 50% to 100% for five years. That’s why fighting the charge is so important. A reduction from stunt driving to speeding saves you thousands in the long run.
Will I go to jail for stunt driving?
Stunt driving under section 172 of the Highway Traffic Act is a summary conviction offence. Jail time is rare for first-time offenders, but it’s possible. Repeat offenders, or those with aggravating circumstances, face higher risk. A legal representative can help minimize this risk.
Can my stunt driving charge be reduced or withdrawn?
Yes. 48.3% of disposed stunt driving charges are withdrawn before or at trial. Many more are reduced to lesser charges like speeding. A legal representative can negotiate with the Crown prosecutor and may convince them to withdraw the charge based on evidence, procedural issues, or mitigating circumstances.
How long does a stunt driving case take?
Most cases take between three to six months from charge to resolution. Some resolve faster if the Crown agrees to withdraw the charge. Others take longer if the case goes to trial. Your legal representative can give you a more accurate timeline once they review the specifics of your situation.
Do I need a legal representative?
Yes. Absolutely yes. Stunt driving charges are serious, and the consequences are significant. You have the right to represent yourself, but it’s a mistake. A legal representative understands the procedural requirements, knows how to challenge evidence, and can negotiate on your behalf. The investment in proper legal help will save you thousands of dollars and protect your licence, insurance, and career.
Will a stunt driving conviction affect my insurance?
Yes, significantly. A conviction makes you a high-risk driver, and your insurance premiums will increase by 50% to 100% or more for at least five years. Some insurers will cancel your policy. But if the charge is withdrawn or reduced to a simple speeding ticket, your insurance impact is minimal. This is why fighting the charge is critical.
Talk to NextLaw About Your Stunt Driving Charge
If you’ve just been charged with stunt driving, you’re scared. That’s understandable. But you have options, and the path forward doesn’t have to be alone. NextLaw has helped hundreds of people in your situation. We’ve gotten charges withdrawn, reduced speeding tickets, and protected licenses and careers.
Jonathan Cohen and the team at NextLaw are ready to help. We offer a free consultation to discuss your case and explain exactly what happens next. You’ll understand your options, your risks, and the realistic outcomes you can expect. You’ll leave that call feeling more confident and less alone.
Call us today at 1-833-639-8529, or visit stunt-call.nextlaw.ca to book your free consultation. Don’t wait. The sooner you reach out, the sooner we can start protecting your future.
You made a mistake. That’s human. But you don’t have to face the consequences alone. Let NextLaw fight for you.
