Ontario Traffic Tickets
Navigating the roads of Ontario comes with its fair share of challenges, and unfortunately, traffic tickets are a common inconvenience for many drivers.
Whether it’s a minor speeding violation or accusations of careless driving, these tickets can lead to hefty fines, demerit points, and even licence penalties that disrupt your driving privileges.
92%
Report reduced fines or charges
5
Average Rating
At JUSTICEJOLT we understand the impact of these infractions on your life, and we’re dedicated to helping you fight back. Our experienced team specializes in traffic ticket defence, employing proven strategies to reduce fines and protect your driving record.
What Is A Traffic Ticket?
Traffic tickets in Ontario, also known as citations or fines, are issued by law enforcement officers to drivers suspected of breaking traffic laws. Common violations include speeding, running red lights, making improper lane changes, and distracted driving, which can lead to increased insurance rates.
When a driver receives a traffic ticket in Ontario, it serves as a formal notice of the alleged violation. The ticket includes essential information such as the nature of the offence, the time and location of the incident, and the amount of the fine or penalty associated with the violation.
List Of Ontario Traffic Tickets
| Offence | Demerit Points | Insurance Increase | Licence Suspensions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Careless Driving Tickets | 6 | Yes | – Yes – Mandatory for Novice Drivers – Possible 6 month upon Conviction all others |
| Suspended Driving | 0 | Dramatically | – Mandatory 6 months suspension upon conviction for all drivers |
| Disobey Police Officer | 3 | Yes | – No |
| Fail to Stop for Police | 6 | Dramatically | – Yes – Mandatory for Novice Drivers – Possible 6 month upon Conviction all others |
| Drive on Closed Highway | 3 | Yes | – No |
| Drive Wrong Way | 3 | Yes | – No |
| Fail to Remain | 6 | Dramatically | – Yes – Novice Drivers – Possible upon Conviction all others |
| Hand Held Device (Cell Phones) | 3 | Dramatically | – Yes – Mandatory 3 day Suspension all drivers |
| Fail to Report Accident | 3 | Dramatically | – No |
| Fail to Signal | 2 | Yes | – No |
| Fail to Stop for School Bus | 6 | Dramatically | – Yes – Mandatory for Novice Drivers |
| Fail to Yield | 3 | Yes | – No |
| Fail to Use Low Beam | 3 | Yes | – No |
| Fail to Stop for Emergency Vehicles | 3 | Dramatically | – No |
| Following too Closely | 4 | Yes | – Yes – Mandatory for Novice Drivers |
| G1 Contraventions | 3 | Yes | – Mandatory Licence Suspension |
| G2 Contraventions | 3 | Yes | – Mandatory Licence Suspension |
| Improper Passing | 2 | Yes | – No |
| Improper Turns | 2 | Yes | – No |
| No Insurance | 0 | Yes | – Possible |
| Fail to Surrender Insurance Card | 0 | Yes | – No |
| Improper Use of High Occupancy Lane | 2 | Yes | – No |
| Pass off Roadway | 2 | Yes | – No |
| Pedestrian Crossovers | 2 | Yes | – No |
| Disobey Red Light | 3 | Yes | – No |
| Radar Warning Device | 3 | Dramatically | – No |
| Racing | 6 | Yes | – Yes – Mandatory for Novice Drivers – Possible 2 years upon Conviction all others |
| Fail to Stop for School Bus | 6 | Dramatically | – 30 day suspension for novice drivers |
| Speeding | 3 to 6 | Yes | Speeds over 30km – Mandatory suspension Novice Drivers – Possible for over 50km/h for all others |
| Stunt Driving | 6 | Dramatically | – Yes – Mandatory for Novice Drivers – Possible 2 years upon Conviction all others |
| Seat Belts | 2 | Yes | – No |
| Unnecessary Slow Driving | 2 | Yes | – No |
What Do I Do If I Receive A Traffic Ticket?
If you get a traffic ticket, you typically have three options: pay the fine, request a meeting with a prosecutor for possible negotiation, or contest the ticket in court. Paying means you accept the violation, while a meeting may lead to a lesser charge. Contesting allows you to present your case, potentially resulting in dismissal or a reduced fine. Here is an overview of each option:
Paying the Fine
If you choose to accept the violation, you can pay the fine using the methods listed on your ticket. By doing this, you acknowledge the infraction, which may lead to penalties such as demerit points on your licence and potential increases in your insurance premiums.
Seeking an Early Resolution Meeting
An early resolution meeting gives you the chance to discuss your ticket with a prosecutor prior to going to court. This could lead to a possible reduction in the charge or penalty. To initiate this process, follow the guidance provided on your ticket, which will direct you to an online portal or municipal court office.
Challenging the Ticket in Court
Should you believe the citation was unjust or if you possess a solid defence, you may opt to contest the ticket in court. This option requires you to set a trial date and present your case before a judge or jury. It’s advisable to consult with a paralegal or lawyer who specializes in traffic law to strengthen your position. Be sure to collect any relevant evidence that can support your case during the court proceedings.
What Happens If I Don’t Pay For A Traffic Ticket?
If you fail to pay the fine imposed upon conviction by the due date, there may be several consequences, including:
- The Ontario Ministry of Transportation may refuse to validate your vehicle registration and suspend your driver’s licence.
- Your driver’s licence may be suspended, and you may be required to pay a reinstatement fee as set by the Ministry of Transportation.
- You may be unable to renew your licence plate.
- Additional collection costs may be incurred.
- The debt may be reported to the Credit Bureau, which could impact your credit rating.
- Your case could be referred to a private collection agency for formal collection proceedings.
- The fine may be collected through further court action, including small claims court, a writ of seizure and sale, or wage garnishment.
- The amount owed may be added to the municipal tax roll.
- An additional administrative fee may be charged.
Be sure to check your traffic tickets online to ensure you paid on time.
Is It Worth Fighting A Traffic Ticket In Ontario?
Yes, it is worth fighting a traffic ticket to lower fines and limit the impact on your driving record. Every individual has the right to contest a traffic ticket. Exercising this right ensures that you are not subjected to unfair penalties and that your legal protections are upheld. Fighting a ticket can be beneficial for the following reasons:
Prevent Points on Your Driving Record
Accumulating points on your driving record can have serious consequences, such as licence suspension. Challenging a traffic ticket can help you avoid these points and maintain a clean record.
Save Money by Reducing Fines
Traffic tickets often come with significant fines that can strain your finances. Contesting the ticket might reduce or even eliminate these fines.
Safeguard Your Driving Record
A clean driving record can be essential for job opportunities and insurance rates. Successfully contesting a ticket helps you keep your record pristine.
Address Potential Mistakes
Errors can occur during traffic stops. Whether it’s miscalibrated equipment or judgment calls made by officers, contesting the ticket gives you the opportunity to challenge these potential mistakes.
Keep Your Insurance Premiums in Check
Traffic tickets can lead to higher insurance premiums. By contesting the ticket, you may have a chance to get it dismissed or reduced, thereby helping to keep your insurance costs lower.
Avoid Additional Requirements
Some traffic tickets may require you to attend traffic school. By contesting the ticket, you may be able to avoid this requirement, saving you time and money.
JUSTICEJOLT Traffic Ticket Defence Services Can Help You Fight Traffic Tickets
It’s important to reach out for legal advice promptly after receiving a ticket, particularly if you intend to dispute the charges and appeal the traffic ticket. Traffic ticket paralegals at JUSTICEJOLT, who are knowledgeable about traffic law, can also offer significant support regarding disclosure and your defence strategy. Here’s how we can help:
Understanding the Costs of Legal Assistance
While hiring a lawyer or paralegal involves expenses, these can often be outweighed by the savings from avoided fines, demerit points, and increased insurance rates.
Potential Outcomes: Dismissals or Reduced Charges
Successfully contesting a traffic ticket may lead to dismissals, reductions to lesser offences, or decreased penalties.
Mastering the Disclosure Process
Lawyers and paralegals provide essential support by efficiently navigating the disclosure process, which is pivotal for crafting a solid defence. They help you obtain and comprehend the disclosure package, including vital documents that can influence your case.
Detailed Review of Disclosure Materials
By thoroughly analyzing the disclosure, lawyers pinpoint potential flaws in the prosecution’s case. This includes identifying errors on the ticket, missing information, or evidence that may not be credible.
Strategic Negotiations with Prosecutors
When the disclosure reveals weaknesses, experienced lawyers and paralegals can negotiate with the prosecutor to lessen the charges or penalties, and sometimes even secure a dismissal of the ticket.
Court Representation
Your paralegals can represent you in court, effectively presenting your case and defending your interests.
Early Resolution Meetings
Lawyers and paralegals are skilled in handling early resolution meetings with prosecutors to discuss your case and explore opportunities for settlement.
Clarifying Your Legal Options
They can help you understand your options and advise on the best course of action based on the details revealed in the disclosure.
Filing Appeals
If you face a conviction and believe it’s unjust, a traffic paralegal can assist you in filing an appeal to challenge the decision.
Spotting Constitutional Violations
Paralegals are adept at identifying potential violations of constitutional rights, which can serve as valid grounds for contesting a ticket.