If you’ve been charged with Stunt Driving under section 172(1) of the Ontario Highway Traffic Act, you’re likely facing a 30-day roadside license suspension. This immediate suspension can be confusing and stressful, but understanding how to get your license back is crucial. This guide will walk you through the steps to regain your driving privileges after the initial suspension period ends.
Understanding the 30-Day Suspension
When you’re charged with Stunt Driving in Ontario, the officer immediately suspends your license for 30 days at the roadside. This administrative suspension is separate from any penalties you may face in court later. It’s important to note that this suspension is automatic and begins immediately, regardless of your circumstances or needs.
Impact on Daily Life
The 30-day suspension can significantly disrupt your daily routine:
- Work: If your job requires driving, you must make alternative arrangements.
- Family Responsibilities: Caregiving or childcare duties may be affected.
- Education: Getting to school may become more challenging.
Unfortunately, the law does not make exceptions for these situations. The suspension is viewed as a public safety measure, and personal circumstances are not grounds for early reinstatement.
Steps to Regain Your License
Once the 30-day suspension period is over, you can take steps to get your license back. Here’s what you need to do:
- Gather Documentation: Collect all documents related to the suspension you received during the roadside charge.
- Visit Service Ontario: On day 31, go to your local Service Ontario office after your suspension begins.
- Present Your Documents: Bring the suspension documents to the Service Ontario representative.
- Receive Temporary License: You should be issued a temporary printed license immediately at no cost.
- Await Permanent License: A new hard copy of your license will be mailed to you.
Common Misconceptions About Reinstatement Fees
One of the most prevalent misconceptions about Stunt Driving suspensions is the belief that there’s a reinstatement fee. However, this is inaccurate for Stunt Driving administrative suspensions in Ontario.
Why There’s No Fee
The Stunt Driving suspension is considered an “administrative suspension,” essentially a 30-day “pause” on your license. After this period, your license is automatically “un-paused” without additional fees.
This differs from other types of suspensions that may require reinstatement fees. For Stunt Driving charges, getting your license back is designed to be straightforward and cost-free, at least in terms of administrative fees.
What to Expect After Regaining Your License
Once you’ve retrieved your license from Service Ontario, you can resume driving as usual until your court case is resolved. However, it’s crucial to remember that this is just the first step in dealing with your Stunt Driving charge.
Preparing for Court
While you can drive again after the 30-day suspension, you must still address the actual Stunt Driving charge in court. This is where the more severe penalties, such as fines, longer suspensions, and potential jail time, come into play.
Long-Term Consequences and Legal Considerations
It’s important to understand that while regaining your license after the 30-day suspension is relatively straightforward, the Stunt Driving charge itself carries significant potential penalties:
- License suspension of 1-3 years upon conviction
- Fines ranging from $2,000 to $10,000
- Possible jail time of up to 6 months
These penalties underscore the seriousness with which Ontario law treats Stunt Driving offences. They’re designed as punishment and a deterrent to dangerous driving behaviours.
Seeking Legal Assistance
Given the severity of potential penalties, it is advisable to seek legal counsel to navigate your Stunt Driving charge. An experienced lawyer can help develop a strategy to defend against the charges and mitigate the consequences.
The Importance of Responsible Driving
While understanding the process of regaining your license is crucial, reflecting on the circumstances that led to the Stunt Driving charge is equally essential. Ontario’s strict laws on Stunt Driving are designed to promote public safety and discourage dangerous driving behaviours.
Moving Forward
After regaining your license, consider:
- Enrolling in defensive driving courses
- Reviewing and adhering strictly to traffic laws
- Being mindful of your speed and driving habits
These steps can help prevent future incidents and demonstrate your commitment to responsible driving.
Let’s get your license back
Navigating a Stunt Driving charge in Ontario can be complex and stressful. While regaining your license after the initial 30-day suspension is relatively straightforward, it’s just the beginning of dealing with the charge. Remember, there’s no reinstatement fee for this administrative suspension, but the potential consequences of the charge itself are severe.
By understanding the process, seeking appropriate legal advice, and committing to responsible driving practices, you can navigate this challenging situation and work towards a positive resolution. Always prioritize safety on the road, for yourself and others, to avoid facing such charges in the future.
Is there a fee to reinstate my license after a stunt driving suspension?
No, there is no reinstatement fee for a 30-day stunt driving suspension in Ontario. The suspension is considered administrative, and your license is automatically reinstated without any charges once the suspension period ends.
What happens if I'm caught driving during the 30-day suspension?
Driving during the 30-day suspension can lead to additional charges, including further license suspensions, fines, and possibly even jail time. It's important to wait until the suspension period ends before resuming driving.
