Challenging Stunt Driving Charges in Ontario: Is it Possible?
Understanding Stunt Driving Charges
Stunt driving involves driving a motor vehicle in a manner that is dangerous to public safety. Examples of stunt driving include burnouts, drifting, excessive speeding, and racing. In Ontario, stunt driving is a serious traffic offense under the Highway Traffic Act (HTA) and is punishable by hefty fines, license suspension, and even imprisonment. If you are facing stunt driving charges, you may be wondering if it’s possible to challenge them in court.
The Possibility of Challenging Stunt Driving Charges
While challenging stunt driving charges is possible, it’s not an easy feat. Unlike other traffic offenses, stunt driving is a strict liability offense, meaning that the prosecution does not have to prove intent or negligence on your part. Rather, it’s enough to show that you were driving in a manner that amounted to stunt driving. This makes it challenging to defend against such charges.
However, all hope is not lost. You can still challenge stunt driving charges by raising a legal defense. Some of the defenses that you can use include:
The Importance of Legal Representation
If you are facing stunt driving charges, it’s essential to seek legal representation as soon as possible. A skilled traffic lawyer can help you understand your legal options and develop a strong defense strategy. They can also negotiate with the prosecution to reduce the charges or penalties if necessary. Moreover, an experienced lawyer can represent you in court and increase your chances of getting a favorable outcome.
Repercussions of a Stunt Driving Conviction
If you are convicted of stunt driving, the consequences can be severe. First and foremost, you will receive a fine of between $2,000 and $10,000, depending on the type of offense committed. You will also receive a license suspension of up to two years, which means that you cannot legally drive during the suspension period. Additionally, you may face imprisonment of up to six months for the first offense and up to two years for subsequent offenses.
Moreover, a stunt driving conviction will affect your insurance rates and driving record. You may have to pay higher premiums or lose your insurance altogether. A conviction will also appear on your driving record for at least three years, which can affect your employability and reputation. It’s, therefore, vital to avoid a conviction if possible or minimize the charges and penalties through legal representation. Eager to know more about the subject? We have you covered! ontario stunt driving, explore the external resource for more in-depth information and fresh perspectives.
Conclusion
Challenging stunt driving charges in Ontario is possible but challenging. You can raise a legal defense, but you need the assistance of a skilled traffic lawyer to increase your chances of success. A conviction for stunt driving can have severe repercussions, including hefty fines, license suspension, imprisonment, and damage to your driving record and insurance rates. It’s, therefore, critical to take any stunt driving allegations seriously and seek legal advice as soon as possible.
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