It may not be easy to navigate the world of traffic fines in Ontario. With so many laws and regulations, it’s easy to become overwhelmed. Understanding these regulations, however, can help you avoid penalties and keep your driving record clean.
Recognizing Traffic Tickets
A traffic ticket is a notification issued by a law enforcement officer to a driver or other road user who fails to respect road and safety regulations, according to Traffic Paralegal Services, a top authority in Ontario traffic legislation. Moving infractions and non-moving violations are the two types of traffic charges. Moving infractions include speeding or running a red light, whereas non-moving violations are usually parking penalties.
The Implications of Traffic Tickets
Receiving a traffic ticket in Ontario can have serious implications. Penalties can range from fines to demerit points on your driving record and, in certain circumstances, suspension of your driver’s license, depending on the severity of the infraction. For example, your license may be suspended if you have 15 or more demerit points on your record in two years.
The penalty is much stricter if you’re commercial driver. If you get the giant number of the tickets on a service, your chances to preserve the current working seat are minimal. One ticket will leave you without work if you’re a school bus driver. The emrrgency offices like police or firefighters have less chances to get a ticket, but sometimes the transportation attorneys deal with that.
Here are some examples of widespread violations and the number of points for that.
Violation Points
Speeding: 16 to 29 km/h over the limit 3
Speeding: 30 to 49 km/h over the limit 4
Speeding: 50 km/h or more over the limit 6
Racing 6
Failing to stop for a school bus 6
Careless driving 6
Failing to remain at the scene of a collision 7
Failing to stop for police 7
Driving while under suspension 6
Driving while holding a handheld communication device 3
Driving with an open container of liquor 3
Driving with a blood alcohol level above zero (young drivers) 3
Exceeding the speed limit by 50 km/h or more (stunt driving) 6
Failing to obey the directions of a police officer 7
Failing to report a collision to a police officer 7
Failing to slow down and move into another lane when approaching a stopped emergency vehicle with its red lights flashing 3
Failing to yield the right-of-way 3
Following too closely 4
Improper passing3Improper use of a high occupancy vehicle lane 3
Making an improper right turn 2
Making an improper left turn 2
Making an improper turn 2
Not wearing a seatbelt 2
Not wearing a helmet (motorcycle riders) 2
Running a red light 3
Running a stop sign 3
Stunt driving 6
How to Deal with a Traffic Ticket
In Ontario, you have three alternatives if you receive a traffic ticket: pay the fee, plead guilty with an explanation, or contest the penalty. If you wish to contest the ticket, you must appear in court to state your case. You must respond to the ticket within 15 days to prevent extra fines.
Myths About Traffic Tickets Dispelled
In Ontario, there are several myths concerning traffic tickets. One prevalent misconception is that if a police officer mistakes your ticket, it would be instantly cancelled. This, however, is only sometimes the case. Minor mistakes, such as a misspelled name or an erroneous address, will not result in ticket dismissal.
How to Avoid Getting a Traffic Ticket
Obeying all driving regulations is the easiest method to prevent extreme traffic citations in Ontario. This covers not just apparent norms like avoiding speeding or running red lights, but also less evident ones. For example, operating a car that is not in acceptable mechanical condition is prohibited, according to Ontario Regulation 339/94. This sort of infringement may be avoided with regular vehicle maintenance.
The Function of Traffic Paralegals
Paralegals are essential in the current traffic ticket system. They can represent you in court, explain your rights to you, and advise you on effectively managing your case. Hiring a paralegal can improve your chances of winning a ticket and save you time and aggravation.
Conclusion
Understanding traffic citations in Ontario is essential for keeping your driving record clean and avoiding unwarranted fines. You can confidently handle the traffic ticket system if you know your rights, grasp the repercussions of offences, and refute popular fallacies. And keep in mind that Traffic Paralegal Services is always there to assist you.
