You got a traffic ticket in Ontario: What You Need to Know
In Ontario, many common traffic tickets, such as speeding or failing to come to a complete stop at a stop sign, are not considered criminal offences. These are known as provincial offences, regulated by the Provincial Offenses Act (POA).
Although they do not result in a criminal record, they can have significant consequences. For example, some offences result in demerit points on your licence. If you accumulate too many points, you may receive warnings or even have your license suspended or revoked. They can also affect your driving record, which impacts the cost of car insurance.
What happens if I ignore the ticket? (Part I – POA)
Ignoring a ticket does not make it go away. In fact, if you don’t take action in time, the case will move forward without you. If you do not respond within 15 days, it will be assumed that you do not wish to contest the charge. In that case, the judge must review the citation to make sure it is complete and accurate (complete and regular on its face). If the citation meets those requirements, the judge will grant a conviction even if you don’t show up.
Why should you take them seriously?
Sometimes we think a ticket is “no big deal,” especially if the amount doesn’t seem that high. However, failing to respond to or mishandling a provincial violation can have more serious consequences than many people realize:
· Impact on car insurance: A conviction can significantly increase the cost of your insurance.
· Demerit points: If you accumulate too many points, you could receive warnings from the Department of Transportation, suspensions, or even revocation of your licence.
· Licence suspension: If you do not pay your fines or repeat certain offenses, you may temporarily lose your right to drive.
What should I do if I receive a ticket?
When you receive a ticket, the document will clearly indicate that you have 15 days to respond. These are calendar days, that is two weeks. You have three options:
1. Pay the fine: This is equivalent to pleading guilty. The violation is recorded on your record and demerit points are applied, if the violation warrants it.
2. Request a meeting with the prosecutor (early resolution): You can request an appointment to speak with a prosecutor and try to negotiate a resolution.
3. Request a court hearing: If you believe you are not guilty or wish to defend yourself formally, you can request a hearing where you will present your case before a judge.
If you want to find the best way to handle your traffic ticket Part I, I recommend that you check with Gisella Ghiorzo of Ghiorzo Law Services. She specializes in traffic tickets and has the knowledge and expertise to find the best solution for your case.
