Consequences of Stunt Driving for G2 Drivers in Ontario

A stunt driving charge is a serious matter for any driver in Ontario, but for a G2 licence holder, the repercussions are particularly severe and can be life-altering. The legal system views G2 drivers as novice motorists, and as such, any major traffic conviction, including a charge for stunt driving, triggers additional penalties under the province's Graduated Licensing System.

General Penalties for Stunt Driving

A stunt driving charge isn't just a simple speeding ticket; it's one of the most serious non-criminal traffic offenses in Ontario. The penalties are substantial and apply to everyone, regardless of their licence class. If a G2 driver is charged with stunt driving in cities like Toronto, Mississauga, or Brampton, they'll face immediate consequences.

• Immediate 30-Day Licence Suspension: The moment you're charged, your licence is suspended at the roadside. This is an immediate administrative penalty and happens before you've even been to court.
• Immediate 14-Day Vehicle Impoundment: Your vehicle is seized and towed on the spot, and you're responsible for all towing and storage fees. This happens even if you aren't the registered owner of the vehicle.
• Conviction Penalties: If found guilty, a driver faces:
  • A fine ranging from $2,000 to $10,000.
  • A mandatory driver's licence suspension of at least one to three years for a first offense.
  • Six demerit points added to your driving record.
  • Potential jail time of up to six months.
  • Massive increases in insurance premiums for many years, often making it impossible to afford a vehicle.

G2-Specific Consequences: The Escalating Sanctions Program

For G2 drivers, a stunt driving with G2 charge is doubly punishing because it triggers the Ministry of Transportation's (MTO) Escalating Sanctions Program.

A G2 licence holder is only allowed to have a maximum of four demerit points before facing a suspension. Since a stunt driving with G2 conviction comes with six demerit points, it automatically exceeds this threshold, leading to an automatic 30-day suspension from the MTO. This is a separate penalty from the roadside suspension and the suspension given by the court. So, a G2 driver can face three different suspensions for a single stunt driving incident.

If you already have a history of traffic convictions, a stunt driving with G2 charge can lead to a second or even total loss of your G2 licence. A second major offence can result in a 90-day suspension, while a third offense will lead to the cancellation of your G2 licence entirely, forcing you to restart the entire graduated licensing process from a G1.

The Trap of Pleading to a Lesser Offence

Many G2 drivers might consider pleading to a lesser charge, such as careless driving, to avoid the steep penalties of a stunt driving conviction. While this seems like a good idea, it can still trigger a suspension. A careless driving conviction also carries six demerit points, which will still be enough to trigger the MTO's Escalating Sanctions Program for G2 drivers and result in a 30-day suspension. Therefore, a G2 driver may still face a licence suspension and all the associated consequences, even if the charge is reduced.

The complexities and severe penalties of a stunt driving with G2 charge make it essential to seek legal advice. Navigating the courts and negotiating with the prosecution requires a deep understanding of traffic law to protect your driving privileges.

For a full understanding of your options, including contesting the charge and its implications, contact Traffic Law Paralegal Services.

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