There are major groupings of speed thresholds in kilometers for Stunt Driving in Ontario. Each grouping will get you charged with the same offence under Section 172 of the Highway Traffic Act for Stunt Driving or Racing. But each grouping may have very different consequences when you have to address the matter with a Prosecutor in court. Let’s investigate.
1. 40 km or more in a posted zone of less than 80 km
This is the first range of Stunt speeds. This speed cannot exceed more than 40 km over the speed limit, where the posted speed limit is under 80 km. This is because these speeds are referred to as residential speeds (as opposed to highway speeds). This is generally a tougher Stunt battle in court, because residential speeds mean that there is a chance that people could be crossing the road, and there is an even greater threat to public safety (in the eyes of the prosecutor). These zones could include residential neighborhoods or school zones. Even if the road was not residential, the court sees it as a residential speed. Prosecutors may screen tougher Stunt Driving penalties if you get charged in this type of zone.
2. 50 km or more in a posted zone of 80 km or more
The Stunt Driving speed in this zone is 50 km or more than the posted speed limit. The reason the limit is higher is because these zones are considered Highway. EVen though the court views you as a public safety threat, due to your Stunt Driving speed, the chances of pedestrians is decreased, as these are often highways. This does not lessen the charge, but may be viewed differently by the prosecutor. Each court is different.
3. Any speed of 150 km or more, regardless of Highway speed
There are certain highways across Ontario that have a 110 km speed limit. Even though example 2 above states that you have to be more than 50 km over the limit on a highway, the law has drawn a line at 150 km as a Stunt speed, even if the speed limit is 110 km. This would mean, mathematically, you are only 40 km over on a highway, if you are 150 km in a posted 110 km zone. But regardless, this would qualify as a Stunt Driving charge.
What are the new laws in Ontario for Stunt Driving
New Stunt driving laws in Ontario refers to legislation under Section 172(1) of the Highway Traffic Act. As of 2021, the updated laws stipulate the following key points:
- Definition: Stunt driving now includes exceeding the posted speed limit by more than 50 km/h.
- Offences: Engaging in stunt driving is a serious traffic violation with severe consequences.
- Penalties: Offenders may face substantial fines, license suspension, vehicle impoundment, and mandatory driver improvement courses.
It is crucial to stay informed about the most recent changes to stunt driving laws in Ontario, as they aim to enhance road safety and deter dangerous driving behaviours. Always adhere to posted speed limits and follow traffic regulations to avoid costly penalties and potential harm to yourself and others on the road.
How many points is stunt driving in Ontario?
Understanding the demerit points associated with stunt driving in Ontario is crucial, as it can have significant repercussions on your driving privileges, insurance rates, and employment opportunities. A stunt driving offence in Ontario carries six (6) demerit points, in addition to other serious penalties. These include a 30-day license suspension, 14-day vehicle impoundment, and potential fines and jail time upon conviction. Being aware of these consequences can help drivers make informed decisions and prioritize responsible driving habits to avoid stunt driving incidents.
What are the speed thresholds for a Stunt Driving charge in zones with posted speed limit less than 80 km?
In Ontario, if you are driving 40 km or more over the posted speed limit in a zone with a speed limit of less than 80 km, you can be charged with Stunt Driving under Section 172 of the Highway Traffic Act. These zones are considered residential areas, and the court may view a violation in these areas as a greater threat to public safety. This could include residential neighborhoods or school zones. Prosecutors may be more likely to seek harsher penalties for Stunt Driving in these areas.
What are the speed thresholds for a Stunt Driving charge in zones with posted speed limit of 80 km or more?
In zones with posted speed limits of 80 km or more, such as highways, the speed threshold for a Stunt Driving charge is 50 km or more over the posted speed limit. Even though these areas are considered highways and the risk of pedestrian traffic is lower, the court still views a violation in these areas as a threat to public safety. However, each court may approach this type of charge differently.