Stunt driving is a serious offense often viewed as having various interpretive and constitutional ambiguities.
According to Section 172, "Racing, stunts, etc., prohibited":
172 (1) No individual shall operate a motor vehicle on a highway in a race or contest, for a wager, or while performing a stunt. 2021, c. 26, Sched. 1, s. 15 (4)
O. Reg. 455/07, s. 2(3)(i) defines “race” and “contest” as “Operating a motor vehicle without due care and attention, without reasonable consideration for other road users, or in a manner that may endanger any person by... driving a motor vehicle at a speed that significantly exceeds the lawful speed limit.”
The list of offenses is often non-exhaustive and includes driving 50 kilometers per hour over the speed limit, which closely resembles a speeding violation.
Common Reasons for Stunt Driving Charges in Ontario:
Street Racing – Involves two or more vehicles racing, competing, chasing, or attempting to quickly accelerate away from another vehicle.
Aggressive Driving – Includes behaviors such as repeatedly changing lanes to advance aggressively through traffic, blocking another vehicle, brake checking, or tailgating.
Tire Traction – Intentionally lifting one or more tires off the ground, such as performing a "wheelie" on a motorcycle, or causing tires to lose traction, as seen in burnouts, fishtailing, drifting, or spinning tires at a green light.
Excessive Speeding – Driving at a speed that is 40 kilometers per hour or more over the limit in a 70 km/h zone or higher, or at a speed that is 50 kilometers per hour or more over the limit in an 80 km/h zone or higher.
Stunt Driving Penalties:
Minimum Fine: $2,000 + **
Maximum Fine: $10,000 +**
Demerit Points: 6
Automatic Vehicle Impoundment: 14 days, plus a 30-day roadside licence suspension
Court-Ordered Licence Suspension:
First offense: 1 to 3 years
Second offense: 3 to 10 years
Third offense: Lifetime suspension (subject to potential reduction)
Fourth offense: Lifetime suspension
Possible Jail Time: Up to 6 months
Insurance Impact: Classified as a “serious” offense by most insurance providers
Licence Suspension:
Stunt driving results in an automatic 30-day licence suspension that takes effect immediately at the roadside. To regain your licence, you must visit a Service Ontario (MTO) office after the suspension period ends and pay a reinstatement fee.
Important Note:
This is not merely a ticket. It could jeopardize your job, your family's financial stability, or your ability to provide for your household. Your insurance premiums could skyrocket, potentially costing you thousands of dollars. We aim to help you avoid these consequences.
