Fight Your Speeding Ticket in Ontario – Avoid Fines & Demerit Points
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Speeding tickets in Ontario can lead to expensive fines, demerit points, and even higher insurance rates. But did you know that you can fight your ticket and possibly reduce or eliminate the penalties? Whether you were caught going a few kilometers over the limit or received a serious fine, disputing a speeding ticket is possible with the right approach.
If you recently received a speeding ticket, you might be wondering:
- Can I fight my speeding ticket in Ontario?
- Will I still get demerit points if I challenge my ticket?
- How do I dispute a speeding ticket in court?
We answer all these questions below, plus share expert insights from Ontario traffic paralegals who specialize in helping drivers reduce their fines.
Can You Fight a Speeding Ticket in Ontario?
Yes! Many drivers successfully dispute their speeding tickets and either get the charge dismissed or have the fine and demerit points reduced. The outcome depends on factors such as:
- The accuracy of the ticket details
- The officer’s evidence
- Your driving record
- Legal technicalities in how the ticket was issued
A common misconception is that small mistakes on a ticket will automatically get it dismissed. While errors can help your case, it’s essential to have a solid legal argument.
How to Dispute a Speeding Ticket in Ontario
1. Request a Trial Date
To dispute your speeding ticket, you must formally request a trial. This can be done online, by mail, or in person at a provincial offenses court. The sooner you act, the better your chances of building a strong case.
2. Review the Evidence Against You
Before your court date, you can request disclosure, which includes the officer’s notes and any supporting evidence. Reviewing this information can reveal weaknesses in the case against you.
3. Hire a Traffic Ticket Paralegal
Ontario paralegals specialize in fighting traffic violations and know how to challenge the evidence presented by police. Many drivers who work with a legal professional have better success in reducing or eliminating their penalties.
4. Attend Court & Present Your Case
In court, you or your representative will have the opportunity to challenge the evidence, cross-examine the officer, and present legal arguments that may lead to a reduction in fines or a dismissal of the charge.
What Happens If You Don’t Fight Your Speeding Ticket?
If you simply pay your speeding ticket without disputing it, you accept full responsibility for the charge. This means:
- Demerit Points: Depending on how fast you were going, you could receive 3-6 demerit points.
- Insurance Increases: Your insurance company may raise your rates for having a speeding conviction.
- License Suspension: If you already have points on your license, additional points from a speeding ticket could lead to a suspension.
How Much Are Speeding Ticket Fines in Ontario?
Speeding fines in Ontario vary based on how fast you were going over the limit:
- 1-15 km/h over the limit: $2.50 per km
- 16-29 km/h over the limit: $3.75 per km
- 30-49 km/h over the limit: $7.50 per km
- 50+ km/h over the limit: Stunt driving charges, license suspension, and vehicle impoundment
Can a Speeding Ticket Be Reduced?
Yes, in many cases, a speeding ticket can be reduced. Common outcomes include:
- Fine reduction – The amount you have to pay is lowered.
- No demerit points – The ticket remains on your record, but without the penalty points.
- Charge withdrawn – If there is a major issue with the ticket, the charge could be dropped entirely.
Why Work with a Paralegal to Fight Your Speeding Ticket?
A traffic ticket paralegal understands Ontario’s court system and knows how to challenge the evidence in your case. They can:
- Identify legal technicalities that may result in a dismissal
- Negotiate with the prosecutor for reduced fines or no points
- Represent you in court so you don’t have to attend in person
Fighting a speeding ticket on your own can be challenging, but with a professional by your side, you increase your chances of a successful outcome.
Common Myths About Fighting Speeding Tickets
There’s a lot of misinformation about disputing speeding tickets. Let’s clear up some common myths:
- Myth: If the officer makes a small mistake on the ticket, it gets thrown out.
- Reality: Small errors like typos or misspellings can sometimes help your case, but they don’t automatically result in a dismissal. The officer can often amend the ticket in court.
- Myth: If I ignore the ticket, it will go away.
- Reality: Ignoring a ticket can lead to a conviction, additional fines, and even a license suspension.
- Myth: I can talk my way out of a ticket in court.
- Reality: Courts require evidence and legal arguments. Having a professional fight your case increases your chances of success.
Real-Life Example of a Disputed Speeding Ticket in Ontario
John, a 28-year-old driver in Toronto, was caught speeding 28 km/h over the limit. His fine was $187, and he was facing 3 demerit points. Instead of paying the ticket immediately, he hired a paralegal to dispute it.
During the court hearing, his legal representative argued that the officer’s radar reading was inconsistent with the conditions that day. The prosecutor agreed to reduce the charge to a non-moving violation, meaning John paid a fine but received no demerit points, and his insurance was unaffected.
Need Help Fighting Your Speeding Ticket in Ontario?
If you’ve received a speeding ticket and want to avoid costly fines and demerit points, contact us today. We’ll connect you with a professional who can assess your case and help you dispute your ticket successfully.