How To Deal With A Traffic Ticket In Ontario
What Is A Traffic Ticket?
A traffic ticket is a notice issued by a law enforcement official, indicating that you have violated one or more road laws. It may be referred to as a moving or non-moving violation and can impact your driving record and insurance rates. Some of the most common tickets given by police are for speeding and rolling through stop signs. These types of offences are dangerous to other motorists and can cause accidents and serious injuries. Whether you have committed minor or major offences, a traffic conviction can negatively impact your life and career.Once you sign a traffic ticket, you agree to appear in court on the specified date and time to face your case. If you fail to attend, you will be automatically convicted. When you appear in court, you have the right to confront witnesses and cross-examine them. If you have a lawyer, they can also present witnesses on your behalf to testify in your defense.
What Are The Penalties For A Traffic Ticket Conviction?
In Ontario, a traffic ticket conviction is not taken lightly. Depending on the severity of your offense, you could face fines, license suspension or even jail time. The most common offense is speeding, where drivers are caught going over the posted limit. If you go more than 30 km/h over the limit, you will receive 3 demerit points, and 41 or more will get you a license suspension. Stunt driving is another offense that is becoming increasingly common, where motorists drive over 80 km/h on roads where the speed limit is less than 80 km/h. A conviction for stunt driving can lead to fines of up to $10,000, a 6-month licence suspension and jail time.Regardless of the severity of the offence, a traffic ticket ontario will remain on your record for three years and can increase your insurance costs. It is important to fight your ticket with a firm that has the proper experience and legal expertise.
How Can I Fight A Traffic Ticket?
If you contest a ticket and follow the correct procedures, there is a reasonable chance that the ticket will be thrown out. The quality of radar equipment, both generally and specifically the device that flagged you, is another factor that can be used to your advantage. The next step is to file for a court date. This will usually be on the back of your traffic ticket. During this process, you can ask for disclosure (cop’s notes).Once the police officer and Crown prosecutor have reviewed your request, they will have to make a decision. If you are convicted of the offence, it will go on your driving record and affect your insurance. Ninety-eight percent of speeding tickets that are disputed are dismissed or reduced at this point. While the judge and prosecutor may try to pressure you into accepting a plea deal, it is always best to fight your case. It can save you money in the long run by delaying the impact on your insurance.
Where Can I Fight A Traffic Ticket?
When a driver receives a traffic ticket in Ontario it is important to remember that you have options and strategies to fight the offence. The first step is to research the specific statute that you have been charged with violating. The ticket will usually contain both a common name for the offense (such as speeding) and the law number (something like “Vehicle Code section 22354”).Next, it is important to gather any evidence that can help support your defence. It is also helpful to review the police officer’s notes and, if possible, challenge the accuracy of their equipment or any visual estimates they may have made. It is also a good idea to consider hiring professional representation in order to ensure you are prepared for your court date. Remember that it is the prosecutor’s job to prove that you have committed the offense beyond a reasonable doubt. This is why enlisting the assistance of a licensed paralegal who has extensive experience fighting traffic tickets in Provincial Offences Courts may be an excellent investment for your case.