Can You Get a Ticket for Going Under the Speed Limit in Ontario?

Under Ontario’s Highway Traffic Act, blocking traffic by driving too slow or hogging the left lane is a serious offence. If you block the flow of traffic, police can issue you an impeding traffic ticket. These charges carry financial penalties, demerit points, and insurance consequences.

Most Ontario highways have no minimum speed limit, but you can be ticketed if your slow driving impedes traffic, increases the risk of rear-end collisions, or causes unpredictable behaviour. Exceptions include slow driving in severe weather, tight curves, and farm and construction vehicles moving at up to 40 km/h with an SMV sign.

Slow Driving And Impeding Traffic Tickets In Ontario: Quick Facts

• Under Section 147 of the Ontario HTA, slow vehicles must stay in the right lane. 
• Failure to drive at the speed limit can lead to an impeding traffic ticket with a $150-$1,000 fine and 2 demerit points.
• Exceptions include slow driving in severe weather, tight curves, and farm and construction vehicles moving at up to 40 km/h with an SMV sign.

What Is Section 147 of the Ontario Highway Traffic Act?

When driving, lane choice is about both safety and courtesy. Generally, slower-moving vehicles should keep to the right, so faster traffic can pass smoothly, with a few common exceptions for passing, turning, and road conditions as outlined in Section 147 of the Highway Traffic Act:

• Right lane priority: Drivers who are moving slower than the average traffic must keep to the right lane.
• Practicality: The law states “where practicable,” meaning factors such as road construction, lane closures, or immediate turn requirements may temporarily allow you to not stay in the right lane.
• Slow vehicles: Vehicles travelling below the normal traffic speed should, when possible, stay in the rightmost available lane or as close as possible to the right edge of the road. Operating farm and construction vehicles that move at speeds up to 40 km/h should display a slow-moving vehicle sign.

There are some exceptions to this rule, such as: 

• You are actively overtaking or passing another vehicle travelling in the same direction.
• You are preparing to make a lawful left turn at an intersection, private road, or driveway.
• You are operating an authorized road service vehicle (such as a snowplow).
• You are riding a bicycle in a designated counter-flow lane.

What Is The Fine For Driving Too Slow? 

Drivers across the province have heard about speeding fines and demerits, but what about driving under the speed limit?

Anyone violating this section while driving faces a fine between $150 and $1,000 and 2 demerit points. The HTA groups these offences into three main categories:

Fines will double if the offence occurs within a designated community safety zone. Additionally, these convictions are recorded on your public driving record, which can increase your auto insurance premiums.

Can I Get A Ticket For Driving The Exact Speed Limit In The Left Lane?

Yes. Under Section 147 and Section 148 of the HTA, if traffic is flowing faster than the posted speed limit and you remain in the left lane blocking vehicles behind you, you can receive an Ontario traffic ticket. The law is written to prioritize the normal and reasonable movement of traffic, not just the speed limit.

Are There Exceptions For Emergency, Farm, and Commercial Vehicles?

Yes. Road service vehicles, such as snowplows, road maintenance trucks, and construction machinery, are explicitly exempt from Section 132 and Section 148 slow driving laws while actively performing work.

Do Slow Driving Tickets Impact My Auto Insurance?

Absolutely. While they are classified as minor convictions, having a slow-driving or lane-positioning conviction on your record can lead to insurance rate hikes upon renewal.

How To Fight A Driving Too Slow Ticket

If you’ve been ticketed under the Highway Traffic Act for driving too slow, you have a tight window to protect your record. Paying the ticket is an admission of guilt, resulting in immediate fines and costly demerit points.

To beat a slow driving or impeding traffic charge, you must act strategically. By filing a timely trial request, requesting the prosecution’s evidence, and identifying the appropriate legal defences, you can get these frustrating charges reduced or dismissed.

• File your notice of intention to appear: Do not pay the fine, as it results in automatic conviction and 2 demerit points. Choose the trial option on the back of your ticket and submit it.
• Request disclosure: Ask the provincial court for officer’s notes, radar logs, and video evidence to understand the officer’s claim.
• Establish legal exceptions: You can fight the ticket by proving your speed was justified by weather conditions, mechanical issues, or road hazards.
• Consider an early resolution: Some jurisdictions offer a meeting with the prosecutor to negotiate the withdrawal or reduction of charges, especially for first-time offences.

Justicejolt’s Team Of Defence Specialists Help Fight Slow Driving Traffic Tickets

Working with experienced traffic lawyers from JUSTICEJOLT can significantly ease your stress when facing an impeding traffic ticket. With our understanding of Ontario’s Highway Traffic Act and proven courtroom strategies, you can navigate the legal process with confidence.

• Experienced legal defence: Our team brings specialized knowledge of HTA Sections 132, 147, and 148, ensuring your defence is built on solid legal precedents.
• Thorough case preparation: We handle all the heavy lifting, including ordering the officer’s notes and filing the necessary legal motions to challenge how “slow” is defined in your specific circumstances.
• Professional trial representation: You won’t have to face the courtroom alone. Our advocates appear on your behalf to cross-examine the officer and present your defence clearly and professionally.
• Spotting prosecutorial weaknesses: We know how to pinpoint flaws in the prosecution’s evidence, such as if weather, road conditions, or safety concerns made your speed necessary.
• Maximizing your chances of success: With seasoned courtroom experience, the JUSTICEJOLT paralegal team gives you the best opportunity to get your charges completely withdrawn or significantly reduced.