Penalties for Driving Under Suspension in Ontario
Driving with a suspended license in Ontario is a serious offense that cannot be resolved simply by paying a fine. Unlike regular tickets, this offense is pursued through a summons, reflecting the severity of the potential penalties, including jail time. There is no set fine for this offense; instead, the penalties are determined by the court.
The penalties for driving under suspension in Ontario include:
- A fine ranging from $1,000 to $5,000
- An additional six months license suspension
- Possible jail time of up to six months
These penalties apply to a first offense, but subsequent convictions can lead to even harsher consequences. If you are facing charges for driving under suspension, it is crucial to seek legal advice to navigate the serious implications of this offense.
Many of our clients rely on their licence to earn a living. If convicted for this offence your employment may be at risk. Driving licence may be suspended for many reasons and the driver should be aware of his/her licence status. In some cases it may not be very simple. Diligence is of utmost importance not to have a suspended license.
Causes of License Suspension
- Unpaid Fines
- Demerit Points Accumulation
- Escalating Sanctions for Novice Drivers
- Criminal Conviction
- Medical Suspension
Drivers caught for driving with a suspended license - including default of family support, but not including suspensions for defaulted fines or medical conditions are subject to vehicle impoundment for seven days. If the driver was suspended and vehicle was impounded it is the responsibility of the owner to pay towing and impoundment fees. When period of a license suspension comes to an end, MTO will charge a reinstatement fee to reinstate driver's privileges. It is worth to note that if your drivers license has been suspended for an extended period of time, MTO may cancel it and require a completion of examination.
Is Driving Under Suspension a Criminal Offense?
Driving under suspension is not classified as a criminal offense but rather as a strict liability offense under the Highway Traffic Act of Ontario. This means that, while the prosecution does not need to prove intent, you can still defend yourself by demonstrating due diligence.
Even if the prosecution successfully proves all elements of the offense, you may still be able to challenge the charge if specific legal arguments apply to your case. Defending against a driving under suspension ticket is important, as prosecutors may seek jail time, especially if you have prior convictions for the same offense. It's crucial to address this charge effectively to avoid severe penalties.
Traffic Law Paralegal Services has been defending motorists in Ontario for many years and confident that we can help you solve your case.
If you were charged with driving under suspension in Mississauga, Toronto or other municipality in Ontario, Traffic Law Paralegal Services is dedicated to fight for you. Call to fight your case today (905)206-9080
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What we do
Traffic Law Paralegal Services is based in Mississauga and has been defending traffic violations and summary criminal offences in Ontario for over two decades. We fight traffic tickets in Mississauga, Toronto and other minicipalities in Ontario.
At Traffic Law you will receive experienced and competent defense services fighting traffic and criminal charges (summary offences). Most common allegations include careless driving tickets, stunt driving, no insurance and more.
About Traffic Law Paralegal Services
Serhiy Senatorov is an owner of Traffic Law Paralegal Services, former vice-president of Licensed Paralegals Association (Ontario), former vice-president and one of the founding board members of the Ontario Paralegals Association and a regular speaker on continuing professional development in a legal community.
Serhiy Senatorov is providing trusted and reliable defense in Ontario and confident to help you.