Stunt Driving in Ontario: Laws, Penalties, and How Apuntar Legal Services Can Help

Stunt driving is one of the most serious traffic offences in Ontario. If you are charged under the Highway Traffic Act (HTA), you face immediate roadside penalties and long-term consequences that can affect your licence, insurance rates, and even your employment. At Apuntar Legal Services, we understand how stressful this situation can be and are here to help protect your rights.

What Is Stunt Driving in Ontario?

Under Section 172(1) of the Ontario Highway Traffic Act, “stunt driving” or “racing” covers a wide range of conduct on the road. It is not limited to drag racing—it can include:

• Driving 50 km/h or more over the posted speed limit (on roads with a limit of 80 km/h or higher).

• Driving 40 km/h or more over the posted limit (on roads with a limit under 80 km/h).

• Performing dangerous driving manoeuvres such as drifting, burnouts, or doughnuts.

• Cutting off another driver and braking suddenly to cause a collision.

• Driving with someone in the trunk.

• Driving without due care for the safety of others in a manner that qualifies as a “contest.”

Penalties for Stunt Driving

The penalties are immediate and severe—even before you have your day in court.

Immediate roadside penalties:

• 14-day vehicle impoundment (you pay towing and storage fees).

• 30-day license suspension.

If convicted in court:

• A fine between $2,000 and $10,000.

• Possible jail time of up to 6 months.

• Licence suspension:

  
  

  • First offence: 1 to 3 years.

  • Second offence: 3 to 10 years.

  • Third offence: up to a lifetime ban.

  
  

• Six demerit points on your driving record.

• Significant insurance premium increases (often thousands of dollars per year).

Possible Defenses to a Stunt Driving Charge

Every case is unique, but possible defenses may include:

1. Challenging the radar or speed measurement device – Was it properly calibrated, maintained, and used?

2. Mistaken identity – Was your vehicle actually the one clocked at the alleged speed?

3. Questioning the officer’s observations – Were the conditions (lighting, traffic, weather) sufficient to make a reliable assessment?

4. Necessity or emergency defense – Was the driving necessary to avoid imminent harm?

5. Procedural errors – Were your rights under the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms respected during the stop and investigation?

A competent paralegal can review the disclosure, identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case, and negotiate for reduced charges or dismissal.

How Apuntar Legal Services Can Help

At Apuntar Legal Services, we focus on protecting your driving record, your license, and your future. Our services include:

• Case review and analysis to determine the strength of the evidence against you.

• Negotiations with prosecutors to reduce the charge (e.g., to a lesser speeding ticket).

• Court representation to challenge evidence and advocate for your acquittal.

• Advice on avoiding demerit points and minimizing insurance consequences.

We understand that losing your license—even temporarily—can disrupt your job, family life, and mobility. That’s why we work diligently to build the strongest possible defense for every client.

If you’ve been charged with stunt driving in Ontario, time is critical. Contact Apuntar Legal Services today for a confidential consultation and let us help you fight for the best possible outcome.