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what is the crime of stunting in ontario

What is the crime of Stunting in Ontario?

Unraveling the Misconceptions: Is Stunt Driving a Crime in Ontario?

This week, we tackle a frequently searched question: Is stunt driving a crime? While the query is common, it can often be misleading. Let’s delve deeper to understand the truth.

The Reality: Stunt Driving is Not a Crime

Facing a stunt driving charge in Ontario can indeed feel like a crime. You might experience arrest at the roadside, potential jail time, a 30-day license suspension, and a 14-day car impoundment. These severe immediate penalties can undoubtedly make you feel like you’re facing criminal charges. But, importantly, stunt driving is not considered a crime.

Stunt driving doesn’t fall under the Criminal Code of Canada, nor can it lead to a criminal record. Instead, it’s regarded as a violation of the Highway Traffic Act, under section 172. If convicted, it will only impact your driving abstract. While it can significantly affect your long-term ability to work and drive, it doesn’t constitute a “crime.

The Correct Terminology: “Stunt Driving”, not “Stunting”

You might hear the term “stunting” used interchangeably with stunt driving. However, “stunting” is not the legal term and refers to “reduced growth in human development” in actuality. Therefore, avoid using “stunting” in your court case, as it signifies something entirely different from what you’ve been charged with.

The correct legal terminology includes “stunt driving”, “excessive speed”, or “racing”, all falling under section 172 of the Highway Traffic Act.

The Quasi-Criminal Nature of Stunt Driving

You may ask, why does stunt driving feel like a crime if it’s not? Stunt driving is deemed a “quasi-criminal” offence, which means its penalties resemble those of criminal offences but are not governed by the criminal code. These stringent penalties are part of the Highway Traffic Act (HTA) of Ontario, serving as a deterrent to prevent similar violations.

Over the years, as stunt driving violations have risen across Ontario, so have the penalties.

Criminal or Not, Legal Assistance is Key

Despite stunt driving not being a crime, it doesn’t mean the consequences are any less severe. Fines ranging from $2000 to $10,000, potential jail time up to six months, and a 1-3 year driving suspension can drastically impact your daily life. Hence, it’s crucial to seek legal help and develop a strategy to reduce or avoid these penalties.

Is Stunt Driving a crime in Ontario?

Getting charged with 'stunting' in Ontario, properly referred to as 'Stunt Driving' may seem like a crime. You may have been arrested at the roadside, face possible jail time, and have your license suspended. However, Stunt Driving is not considered a crime in Ontario. It does not fall under the Criminal Code of Canada and cannot leave you with a criminal record. Instead, it is a violation of the Highway Traffic Act, under section 172, that can only affect your driving abstract if you are convicted. The penalties may be severe, but it is not a criminal offence.

How can I fight a Stunt Driving charge?

Stunt Driving charges can carry severe penalties, including fines between $2000 and $10,000, jail time of up to six months, and a 1-3 year driving suspension. To fight a Stunt Driving charge, it is recommended that you seek legal help from a law firm that specializes in Stunt Driving charges. They can review your case, provide legal advice, and develop a strategy to help reduce or avoid the penalties associated with this violation. Even though Stunt Driving is not a crime but it still a serious matter, hence getting help is still important.

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About Jon Cohen, Partner

Jonathan practices exclusively in defending Stunt Driving charges in Ontario.  He is the co-founding partner of Nextlaw and is licensed by the Law Society of Ontario.

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Next Law publishes these articles and videos as a service to our website visitors for general informational purposes only. These materials do not, and are not, intended to, constitute legal advice. You should not act upon any such information without seeking professional counsel.