Receiving a stunt driving ticket is a serious matter with heavy legal, financial, and long-term repercussions. In Ontario, this charge under the Highway Traffic Act (HTA) carries severe penalties—from hefty fines and license suspensions to vehicle impoundment and even possible jail time. This in-depth guide explores what constitutes stunt driving, the consequences, and how to effectively challenge these charges to safeguard your future.
1. What Counts as Stunt Driving?
Under Section 172 of the HTA and Ontario Regulation 455/07, stunt driving includes various reckless or hazardous behaviors behind the wheel. The most common infractions include:
- Exceeding Speed Limits
- Driving 40 km/h or more over the limit in zones under 80 km/h
- Driving 50 km/h or more over in zones of 80 km/h and above
- Exceeding 150 km/h regardless of the posted limit
- Dangerous Handling of the Vehicle
- Losing traction or controlling vehicle stability while turning
- Performing spinouts or circular maneuvers
- Tailgating pedestrians, vehicles, or fixed objects
- Erratic lane weaving or racing another vehicle
- Performing burnouts, drifting, or doughnuts
These behaviours signal to the court extreme negligence or intent to endanger others—key elements prosecutors look for in a stunt driving ticket.
2. Immediate Consequences: What Happens Right Now
If you’re charged with a stunt driving ticket, you face immediate actions:
- 30‑day roadside license suspension
- Vehicle impoundment for 14 days
- Issuance of a Part III Summons—a court date you absolutely must attend
These immediate measures are designed to remove your ability to drive and highlight the severity of the offense.
3. Penalties Upon Conviction
A conviction brings severe long-term ramifications:
- License suspension: 1 to 3 years for a first conviction; subsequent offenses lead to a lifetime ban
- Fines from $2,000 up to $10,000
- 6 demerit points added to your driving record
- Possible jail sentence: Up to six months, depending on circumstances
- Insurance hit: Major premium increases and risk of policy cancellation
- Vehicle impoundment: 14 days minimum
Additionally, the Mothers Act (July 2021) enhances enforcement, with automatic roadside penalties and impoundment.
4. How a Conviction Impacts You
- Insurance: Convictions remain visible for years, typically three, and cause premiums to spike dramatically .
- Professional Effects: Jobs requiring a clean record—like commercial driving—may be jeopardized.
- Employment: Even non-driving jobs may be affected if professional reputation is important.
5. Defending Your Stunt Driving Ticket
Despite serious charges, you have options to fight or reduce the impact of a stunt driving ticket. Effective defense strategies include:
A. Early Action is Crucial
- Contact professionals (e.g., paralegals, lawyers) ASAP after charge.
- Time-sensitive documents and procedures are involved—missing deadlines can be fatal to your case.
B. Understand the Allegations
- Carefully review the summons for exact infractions (e.g., specific speed over the limit).
- Identify whether the officer’s measurement or description is clear and legally valid.
C. Gather Evidence
- Dashcam footage, GPS or speedometer records, eyewitness statements.
- Document environmental factors like road conditions and signage.
D. Challenge the Prosecution
- Question the accuracy or calibration of speed detection equipment.
- Dispute officer’s training or methodology.
- Argue your conduct doesn’t fit legal definitions of “stunt driving.”
E. Negotiate with the Crown
- A plea bargain could reduce a Stunt Driving charge to a lesser one, like speeding without the full harsh penalties.
- A skilled legal representative can leverage procedural flaws or weak evidence to seek reduced penalties.
F. Prepare for Trial
- A paralegal can collect disclosure materials, cross-examine witnesses, and structure your plea on trial day.
- Objective is full acquittal or, if unavoidable, minimal sentencing.
6. Choosing Legal Assistance
Though not mandatory, professional help is highly beneficial:
- Specialists in traffic law know negotiation tactics and courtroom procedure.
- They handle paperwork, deadlines, discovery requests, and court appearances.
- Most offer flat fees for stunt driving offenses — no surprises.
Quality service includes:
- Free consultations
- Strategic defense plans
- Full courtroom representation
- Negotiation to lessen or dismiss charges
7. Situational Examples by Region
Paralegal services have helped many across Ontario:
- Brampton, Mississauga, Toronto, Ottawa, and other cities: Each region applies the same HTA rules and penalties, with consistent immediate and long-term consequences.
- Whether speeding, drifting, or weaving lanes, outcomes are similar—repeat offenses escalate penalties.
8. FAQs Answered
Can I ignore my stunt driving ticket?
Absolutely not. Ignoring the ticket leads to automatic conviction, additional fines, and mandatory suspension .
How many demerit points?
A conviction adds 6 points to your record.
Will my insurance be affected?
Yes, expect a substantial increase, possibly including cancellation .
Is license loss guaranteed?
An immediate 30‑day suspension is applied roadside. Upon conviction, 1–3 years for a first offense; repeat offenders face a lifetime ban .
Can the charge be reduced?
Yes—plea bargaining can reduce a stunt driving ticket to a lesser charge in certain situations.
9. Taking the Next Steps
If you’ve received a stunt driving ticket:
- Don’t delay—reach out to a qualified paralegal or lawyer.
- Preserve any physical or digital evidence.
- Schedule a free consultation to explore defense strategy.
- File necessary documentation promptly.
- Actively consider plea or full defense options.
Final Takeaway
A stunt driving ticket is no joke. The legal, financial, and long-term implications are harsh, but with timely, professional defense you can significantly reduce or even eliminate penalties. Whether you’re facing immediate roadside consequences or a looming court date, don’t wait—get legal advice today to protect your driving record, freedom, and future.