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SPEEDING TICKETS

What is a Speeding Ticket and What does it involve?

Here are some key facts about speeding tickets in Ontario:

1. Ticket Issuance and Penalties

  • Issuance: Speeding tickets in Ontario are issued by police officers who observe a vehicle exceeding the speed limit.

  • Penalties: The penalties for speeding vary depending on how much you exceed the speed limit. They can range from a fine to demerit points on your driving record, and in some cases, even license suspension.

2. Fines

  • Base Fine: The base fine for speeding is calculated at $2.50 per kilometer per hour (km/h) over the limit. For example, if you are caught driving 20 km/h over the limit, the base fine would be $50 (20 km/h × $2.50).

  • Additional Fees: The total fine may be higher when additional fees, such as the Victim Fine Surcharge, are added.

3. Demerit Points

  • Points System: Speeding convictions result in demerit points being added to your driving record. The number of points depends on how much you exceeded the speed limit:

    • 1 to 15 km/h over: 2 points

    • 16 to 29 km/h over: 3 points

    • 30 to 49 km/h over: 4 points

    • 50 km/h or more over: 6 points

  • Consequences: Accumulating too many demerit points can lead to a license suspension. For example, 15 or more points can result in a suspension.

4. Speeding Ticket Categories

  • Regular Speeding Tickets: For offenses that don’t exceed 49 km/h over the limit.

  • Dangerous Driving: For excessive speeding or reckless driving, which could result in more severe penalties and criminal charges.

5. Options After Receiving a Ticket

  • Paying the Fine: This means you accept the conviction, and the fine and demerit points will be applied.

  • Requesting a Trial: If you choose to contest the ticket, you must request a trial. This involves pleading not guilty and providing evidence in court.

6. Traffic Court Process

  • Trial Notice: After requesting a trial, you’ll receive a notice with the date and location of your court appearance.

  • Disclosure: You can request disclosure of the evidence the prosecution will use against you, including the officer's notes.

7. Impact on Insurance

  • Premium Increase: Speeding convictions can lead to increased insurance premiums. Insurance companies may view speeding tickets as a risk factor and adjust rates accordingly.

8. Legal Advice

  • Consultation: For serious cases or if you are unsure about how to proceed, seeking legal advice may be beneficial.

9. Possible Defenses

  • Speeding Verification: Challenge the accuracy of speed measurement devices or the officer's calibration.

  • Emergency Situations: Argue that you were speeding due to an emergency.

  • Procedural Errors: Point out any errors or irregularities in the ticketing process.

10. Points Reduction

  • Driving Courses: In some cases, completing a driving improvement course may help reduce demerit points, though this usually needs to be approved by the court or the Ministry of Transportation.

 

Understanding these facts can help you navigate the process of handling a speeding ticket in Ontario, whether you choose to pay it or contest it in court.

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