Careless Driving

What Is Careless Driving?

Careless driving occurs when a driver operates a vehicle without due care or fails to reasonably consider others on the road—a common but serious violation under Ontario law. This offence is outlined in Section 130 of the Highway Traffic Act.

Consequences of a Careless Driving Conviction

  • Fines: Typically range between $400 and $2,000. In cases involving bodily harm or death, fines can jump to as high as $50,000.

  • Demerit Points: A conviction adds 6 demerit points to a fully licensed driver’s record. For G1, G2, M1, or M2 drivers, a first-time conviction could lead to an automatic 30-day licence suspension.

  • Licence Suspension: Depending on the circumstances and your driving history, licence suspension can last up to 2 years for standard offences and up to 5 years if bodily harm or death is involved.

  • Imprisonment: A maximum of 6 months for regular cases, and up to 2 years if serious injury or death occurred.

  • Insurance Impact: A careless driving charge often results in significantly higher insurance premiums—and may even lead insurers to consider you a high-risk client.

  • Criminal Record? No—careless driving is a provincial offence, not a criminal one, so it does not result in a criminal record.

Careless Driving Causing Bodily Harm or Death

When an incident involves injury or fatality, penalties escalate sharply:

  • Fines: $2,000 to $50,000

  • Demerit Points: 6 points

  • Licence Suspension: Up to 5 years

  • Imprisonment: Up to 2 years

Though serious, this offence still falls under provincial law and does not carry a criminal record—but the severity can still have lifelong repercussions.

Why You Should Challenge the Charge

  • Broad Applicability: Careless driving is a “catch-all” charge, used often because it covers a wide range of scenarios—from momentary distractions to minor collisions.

  • Pervasive Impact: Even minor infractions can snowball into major consequences—like steep fines, added demerit points, increased premiums, and loss of driving privileges.

  • Legal Defences Exist: The concept of due diligence (showing you took reasonable care) can be a strong defence, especially given the offence’s strict liability nature.

How Our Process Works

  1. Free Initial Consultation
    — Understand your situation with a no-cost, confidential phone or online consultation.

  2. Ticket Review & Evidence Gathering
    — We examine your ticket and related evidence (like photos or witness information) to build an effective case.

  3. Strategic Defence Planning
    — Using legal strategies tailored to your case—including due diligence and procedural scrutiny.

  4. Representation in Court
    — We can appear on your behalf to minimize disruptions to your life—especially useful if attending court is challenging.

  5. Ongoing Support
    — We track outcomes and help you navigate next steps, including managing demerit points or appeal options.

Why Trust Us?

Our traffic specialists focus exclusively on defending drivers charged with careless driving across Ontario. With deep knowledge of the Highway Traffic Act and proven courtroom techniques, we help safeguard your licence, financial future, and peace of mind.

Ready to Take Action?

A careless driving charge doesn’t have to define your future. Reach out today for a discreet, no-obligation consultation to explore your options.