Traffic Ticket
Drivers in Ontario are obligated to comply with a set of traffic laws and regulations. If these laws are violated, drivers may get traffic tickets, fines, and demerit points on their driver’s license. Some of the most frequent traffic ticket offenses in Ontario include:
1. Speeding:
This is one of the most common traffic offenses in Ontario. Fines for speeding can vary depending on how much over the speed limit you were driving. You can get demerit points on your driver’s license for speeding as well.
1-19km/h over the speed limit is a $2.50/km speeding fine.
20-29km/h over the speed limit is a $3.75/km speeding fine.
30-49km/h over the speed limit is a $6.00/km speeding fine.
2. Running a red light:
This is another common traffic offense in Ontario. Running a red light can result in a fine and demerit points on your driver’s license. If you are caught running a red light in Ontario, you can receive a fine of up to $325. Moreover, the offense carries three demerit points on your driver’s license, which can result in higher insurance rates and affect your driving record. In some cases, if you have accumulated a certain number of demerit points, you may also face the suspension of your driver’s license.
3. Driving without insurance:
It is illegal to drive a motor vehicle without insurance coverage. All drivers are required by law to have valid auto insurance coverage that meets the province’s minimum requirements. Driving without insurance is a serious offense that can result in significant legal and financial consequences.
If you are caught driving without insurance in Ontario, you could face a fine of up to $5,000 for the first offense. For subsequent offenses, the fine can increase up to $50,000, along with the possibility of a jail term of up to one year. In addition to the fine, you may also face a driver’s license suspension and the impounding of your vehicle.
4. Using a handheld device while driving:
Using a handheld device while driving is illegal in Ontario, and it is considered a serious traffic offense. The use of handheld devices such as cellphones, tablets, and other electronic devices can distract drivers from the road.
If you are caught using a handheld device while driving in Ontario, you could face a fine of up to $1,000 for a first offense, three demerit points on your driver’s license, and a three-day suspension of your driver’s license. For subsequent offenses, the fine can increase up to $2,000, along with a possible suspension of your driver’s license and even imprisonment.
Parking Infractions in Ontario:
Parking infractions can include violations such as parking in a no-parking zone, parking for longer than the allowed time limit, parking in a handicap spot without a permit, and parking too close to a fire hydrant or intersection.
If you receive a parking ticket in Ontario, you have several options. You can choose to pay the fine, dispute the ticket, or request a trial to contest the ticket in court.After receiving a traffic ticket, the person who is referred to as “the offender” is given a period of 15 days to select one of three options:
1. Plead guilty and not dispute the charge(s) (by paying the fine)
2. Plead guilty with submissions as to penalty (make submissions to the court)
3. or dispute the charge by setting a trial (plead not guilty and defend the charge at trial).
It’s important to be aware that simply paying a parking ticket because it seems easier may not be the best course of action. In fact, doing so can have a significant impact on your driving record and even affect your insurance premiums for up to three years. It’s advisable to explore your options and consider fighting the ticket in court if possible, rather than simply paying the fine without question. By taking the time to contest the ticket, you may be able to avoid long-lasting repercussions and potentially save money on increased insurance premiums. It’s worth noting that while fighting a ticket can be more time-consuming and may require additional effort, the potential benefits can make it well worth the investment.
Why to fight a ticket in court?
Investing in a small legal fee now can save you from paying higher insurance rates in the future. While your insurance company focuses on your past convictions and perceived risks on the road, demerit points are recorded by the Ontario government and they can provide a comprehensive history of your driving record. This includes accidents, driving history, and demerit points, which remain on your record for two years from the date of the offence. By paying a small legal fee now, you can potentially avoid the long-term financial and legal consequences of having demerit points on your record.
-If you are a novice driver (G1 or G2 licensee), you may face a suspension of your license, fines, or possibly jail time.
Do you have a suspended license due to unpaid traffic tickets?
If you’ve had your license suspended due to non-payment of traffic tickets, we can help you get back on the road legally. With a small down payment towards your ticket, we can work to secure you more time to make the necessary payments, putting you in a position to reinstate your license. It’s important to note that this service is only available to those with unpaid traffic tickets in Ontario. Don’t let a suspension hold you back – contact us today to see how we can help you get back on the road safely and legally.
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