Stunt Driving

Ontario Provincial Offences

Stunt driving can be incredibly dangerous. Speeding, weaving in and out of traffic, and other dangerous maneuvers can put people's lives at risk. This type of behavior is especially dangerous when done in residential areas, as pedestrians and other drivers may be unaware of the stunt driver's presence. 

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Stunt Driving

Stunt driving is illegal in Ontario. It's a serious offence and can lead to costly fines and suspension of a driver's license. Stunt driving involves any type of driving that is dangerous and shows a disregard for the safety of others. Some examples of stunt driving are speeding, weaving in and out of traffic, performing wheelies on motorcycles, and racing other vehicles. It's important to remember that even if a driver believes they are able to control their vehicle, stunt driving is still illegal and can have serious consequences.


The Ontario Provincial Police are actively enforcing laws against stunt driving throughout the province. According to their website, “Driving that is intended to show off or make an impression on others is considered stunt driving in Ontario.” Penalties for stunt driving include fines of up to $10,000, up to six months in jail, and a suspension of the driver’s license for up to two years.


The Ontario government is also introducing new measures to help combat stunt driving. This includes the implementation of “street racing” laws, which will allow police to seize and impound vehicles involved in street racing. Police will also be able to issue an immediate roadside license suspension for up to seven days for drivers caught engaged in stunt driving activities.


It's important to remember that stunt driving is illegal and can have serious consequences. Drivers should always exercise caution and drive responsibly. It's everyone's responsibility to help keep Ontario's roads safe.



Defences Against Street Racing

Street racing is a dangerous and illegal activity in many areas, including Ontario. If someone is caught participating in street racing, they can face harsh penalties, including hefty fines and even jail time.


For those facing such charges, it is important to have a good team to help them navigate the legal system. Here are some of the defences Cordaie Paralegal Services can use to help our clients fight street racing charges in Ontario.


Firstly, we may be able to argue that the accused was actually not street racing at all. This defence requires proof that the accused was not actually engaged in a speed contest, as defined by Ontario’s Highway Traffic Act. For example, if they can show that the accused was not racing another vehicle, or that they were not deliberately exceeding the speed limit, the charges may be dropped.


Secondly, our team may be able to argue that the accused did not know that what they were doing constituted street racing. If they can prove that the accused was unaware that they were engaging in an illegal activity, then the charges may be dropped.


Thirdly, our paralegal may be able to argue that the accused was stopped unfairly. This defence requires proof that the police officer who stopped the accused did not have reasonable grounds to believe that street racing was taking place.


Fourthly, we may be able to argue that the accused’s rights were violated in some way. This defence requires proof that the accused’s Charter rights were not respected by the police officers, or that evidence was improperly collected.


Finally, our team may be able to argue that the accused was not the driver of the vehicle. This defence requires proof that someone else was driving the vehicle at the time of the alleged offence.


By exploring these defences, Cordaie Paralegal Services can help our clients fight street racing charges in Ontario. It is important to remember that these defences are simply strategies—defendants and their paralegals must still present a strong case in court to be successful.


For a free consultation call us at 844-4-WIN-4-ME.



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Stunt Driving Tickets

Some information you should know about stunt driving tickets.

Stunt Driving: The Importance of Challenging Them

Performing stunts on the highway in Ontario differs from driving normally. Anyone who exceeds the posted speed limit by more than 50km/h over the posted speed limit can receive a stunt driving traffic ticket under section 172(1) of the Highway Traffic Act. The consequences of committing a stunt driving offence for the second time will be harsher, so you should know everything about it.


Can You Be Charged With Stunt Driving?

Upon conviction, you will face a maximum fine of $10,000 (+25% victim surcharge) and a 30-day suspension of your license on the roadside, as well as a 14-day vehicle seizure. You'll also receive six demerit points as well as possible jail time and a suspension of your license for one to three years.


You must also complete a driver improvement course if you want to keep your license. According to Highway Traffic Act section 172 (1), nobody is allowed to drive a motor vehicle on a highway in a manner of contest, race, or stunt.

Stunt Driving Defined

SPEEDING-RELATED:

  • Exceeding the speed limit by 40 km/h in a posted 80 km/h or less zone
  • Exceeding the speed limit by 50 km/h in a posted 100 km/h or more zone
  • Driving a motor vehicle at 150 km/h or more
  • Driving a car at a speed that exceeds the speed limit. “marked departure from the lawful rate of speed” means a rate of speed that may limit the driver’s ability to adjust to changing circumstances on the highway prudently”.
  • Rapid acceleration is used to disengage from other vehicles


STUNTS RELATED:

  • Trying to catch another vehicle
  • Not sitting in the driver's seat while operating a motor vehicle
  • The act of popping a wheelie on a motorcycle or performing wheel burnouts
  • Intentionally causing some or all of the tires to lose traction on the highway
  • Stand on the motorbike or let go of the steering wheel to step out of the motor vehicle
  • If one of the motor vehicles occupies a lane of traffic or a portion of the highway intended for oncoming traffic for a longer period than is reasonably required to pass another motor vehicle, driving two or more motor vehicles side by side or in proximity to one another.


DID YOU KNOW:

  • At an intersection, turning left before opposing traffic has a chance to pass safely
  • Sled pulling, carrying people in the cab of a pickup truck or regular trunk
  • Passing one or more vehicles at a rate of speed exceeding the speed limit
  • The act of driving without reasonable consideration for other vehicles on the road or without due care and attention


Stunt Driving Could Result in Jail Time

Stunt driving is not technically a crime in Ontario. It is covered by section 172(1) of the Highway Traffic Act. This means that if your stunt driving offences are deemed to be severe, you could be sentenced to jail time as well. On top of that, you should know that in Ontario you are required to take a driving improvement course.


Stunt Driving Penalties 

Penalty Type First-Time Second-Time Third (+) Time
Demerit Points 6 demerit points 6 demerit points 6 demerit points
Fine $2,000 - $10,00 + 25% victim surcharge $2,000 - $10,00 + 25% victim surcharge $2,000 - $10,00 + 25% victim surcharge
Term of Imprisonment Up to 6 Months Up to 6 Months Up to 6 Months
License Roadside Suspension 30 days 30 days 30 days
License Suspension - Upon Conviction 1 - 3 years 10 Years Maximum Life Time Maximum
Driving Improvement Course Mandatory Mandatory Mandatory
Insurance High-Risk Rates, up to 6 years High-Risk Rates, up to 6 years High-Risk Rates, up to 6 years

PLEASE NOTE THE FOLLOWING:

  • A driver's license will be suspended automatically if fines remain unpaid
  • Driving improvement courses must be completed within 60 days of conviction or your driver's license will be revoked.
  • Insurers will likely require high-risk coverage for stunt drivers. Your premiums will be very high for up to six years as a result.


Dealing with Stunt Driving Charges

When getting an invitation to court for stunt driving, it is important to prepare proof that your driver's licence has been reinstated and try to recover your motor vehicle as soon as possible. If you have even one conviction, it won't disappear from your driving record after 3 years and can lead to higher fines and more severe penalties. 


Additionally, if you already have a record, it can hinder your ability to apply for jobs in governmental institutions. Insurance companies do not provide coverage to motorists who knowingly decide to drive a motor vehicle while under suspension.


The most important details are that there are three options for beating a stunt driving charge in Ontario: plead guilty, fight alone, or hire a stunt driving paralegal. An experienced counsel can negotiate in court to reduce the offence or get a reduced fine.



Dealing With it Alone

If you choose to fight your stunt driving charge alone, prepare all necessary documents or letters with relevant information, appear in court on a specified date, and ask for a trial. Before trial, prepare questions for the police officer and other witnesses to prove that the situation was different than the police officer's version. Do research about previously resolved cases to understand under what evidence and arguments the court make a decision. It can take up to three court dates to conclude your matter.



Frequently Asked Questions

Here are answers to some common questions. 

Stunt Driving

  • Are the fines different for a novice or G2 drivers?

    Ontario charges novices and fully licensed drivers for stunt driving, but G2 licence holders face harsher penalties. When a G2 class driver is convicted, the license will be suspended for an additional 30 days from the date the license was surrendered. 


    It is automatically assigned to any G2 holder with more than four (4) demerit points. It is believed by prosecutors that G2 drivers are less experienced and that their clean driving records mean only that they have not been driving for as long as they should. If you are facing such a situation, it is important to have us on your side.


  • Does this apply to public streets and highways?

    The Highway Traffic Act applies to some off-road locations, including parking lots, bike paths, and trails. 


    INCLUDING:

    • There are any parking lots, garages or structures that are public or private;
    • Commercial, private, or industrial parking lots, or any other vacant lot not accessible to the public;
    • No matter whether the driver paid or entered the parking lot without permission, a parking lot with or without paid access. 
    • The Highway Traffic Act does not apply to racetracks, motor speedways, or go-kart tracks (which are designated for stunts and street racing).

  • Does stunt driving constitute a crime?

    Not at all. However, one of the penalties is the possibility of being sent to jail. 

  • How long will a stunt driving conviction remain on my record?

    It will stay on your driving record for the rest of your life if you are found guilty of performing stunt driving. Should you be convicted again, you will face much higher fines and harsher punishments.

  • How many demerit points will I receive for stunt driving?

    There will be a total of 6 (six) demerit points awarded. In addition, your license will be suspended for 30 days at the roadside, your vehicle will be seized for 14 days, you'll be fined at least $2,000, and your license may be suspended for up to 3 years if you're convicted.


  • What is the cost of a stunt driving ticket?

    First-time offenders can be fined between $2,000 and $10,000 plus a 25 percent victim surcharge. A stunt record will also affect your insurance premiums significantly.

  • Should I fight my stunt driving ticket or do I not need to do so?

    A stunt driving summons requires you or your legal representative to attend court on the date specified on the summons, unlike a regular ticket. 


    A fine of up to $2,000, a suspension of the licence, vehicle seizure, and long-term jail time are some of the consequences.


  • How fast do I need to be travelling in order to be considered stunt driving?

    Stunt driving is defined as exceeding the posted speed limit by at least 40km/h if the limit is less than 80km/h, and by at least 50km/h if the limit is at least 100km/h.

  • In the case of stunt driving, what is the penalty?

    First-time offenders can face a penalty of $2,000 to $10,000 plus a 25 percent victim surcharge.

  • Do you lose your license for stunt driving for a certain amount of time?

    Licences are immediately suspended for 30 days at the roadside. A suspension on your driver's license will also be imposed upon conviction of any offence, depending on the type of offence: a first conviction will be suspended for 1 to 3 years; a second conviction will be suspended for up to 10 years; a third conviction will be suspended forever.


  • Is it possible to go to jail for stunt driving?

    It is possible to do so. There is a possibility of jail time of up to six months if you are found guilty of stunt driving.

  • Does street racing carry any demerit points? If so, how many do you receive?

    It is a six-demerit point penalty. Stunt driving and street racing have the same penalties.

  • Is there a sentence for street racing? If so, what is it?

    Six demerit points, jail time (up to 6 months) immediate motor vehicle impoundment for 14 days; minimum fine – $2,000 and up to $10,000 (+25% victim surcharge); immediate roadside licence suspension for 30 days; driver’s licence suspension upon conviction: from one to three years; mandatory driver improvement course.