Driving violations and your insurance
Moving violations in Ontario include any violation of the law committed by the driver of a vehicle in motion. They are charged against the actual driver, not the owner of the vehicle.
Receiving a ticket for one, however, may have implications for your auto insurance premiums. Even experienced drivers can get a little lax when it comes to the rules of the road. We take a look at some of the more common violations and offer a few tips.
- Speeding: This is one of the leading causes of traffic stops in Canada. The faster you drive, the higher your risk of losing control and being involved in a crash, which can be fatal or cause serious injury. According to Ontario data, the risk of fatality or serious injury is 11 times higher in collisions at 50 km/h or more over a speed limit of 100 km/h, than when vehicles are involved in a collision while driving at, or below, the posted limit. If convicted of speeding, you may receive demerit points in addition to fines. The amount of the fine will depend on how fast you were travelling over the posted speed limit.
Tip: The best way to avoid speeding is to stay vigilant. Check your speedometer when you see a speed limit sign and adjust if necessary or set cruise control on highways. Plan your trip in advance and give yourself plenty of time to reach your destination so there is no need to rush.
- Failing to stop at a stop sign: Every driver must obey traffic signs. Failing to stop at a stop sign is an offence under the Ontario Highway Traffic Act, section 136(1). In Ontario, every driver is expected to obey traffic signs to allow other motorists to proceed with caution at intersections. Failing to stop is a dangerous offence that could have potentially deadly consequences, especially if there is a pedestrian attempting to cross the road. This violation can result in a traffic ticket and drivers can face fines, penalties and demerit points.
Tip: Penalties are higher in a community safety zone, which vary by province or territory. These zones represent a commitment to ensuring the safety of residents, pedestrian and cyclists, including children.
- Driving without a seat belt:In Ontario, all drivers and passengers must wear a seatbelt. If your passengers are under the age of 16, it is your responsibility as the driver to ensure their seatbelts are fastened properly at all times. The seatbelt should not be twisted or torn in any area. If convicted, a driver can face fines between $200 and $1,000 and two demerit points.
Tip:You can also be fined for having a broken seatbelt, even if it is not being used when stopped by a police officer.
- Running a red light:Many drivers are tempted to drive through a yellow light. However, speeding through a yellow light is an unsafe habit that can results in a driver running a red. This could easily cause a collision with another vehicle or pedestrian. When approaching a traffic light that is yellow, stop if it’s safe to do so. Once the light has turned red, you must bring your car to a complete stop at the line.
Tip: Many traffic lights are equipped with red light cameras, which make it easy for law enforcement to track down unsafe drivers who run a red.
- Making an improper turn:An improper turn – such as doing a U-turn in a no U-turn zone or turning from the wrong lane – is dangerous and can take other drivers by surprise. If you need to make a U-turn, check first to ensure there aren’t any no U-turn signs. It is illegal to make a U-turn on a curve in the road, on or near a railway crossing, hilltop, bridge or tunnel that obstructs your view.
Tip: When making a proper U-turn, you must be able to clearly see at least 150 metres in both directions. Signal for a right turn, check your mirror and over your shoulder and pull over to the right side of the road. Stop. Signal a left turn and when traffic is clear in both directions, move forward and turn quickly and sharply into the opposite lane. Check for traffic while turning.
What are the insurance implications?
Insurance companies generally view moving violations a risky driving behaviour. As such, tickets could cause premiums to increase. When you get a traffic ticket, including any demerit points, it remains on your record for three years. How it affects insurance depends on:
- Driving history: As a first offence, the impact may be minimal. However, if you have a history of traffic violations, rates could significantly increase.
- Insurer: Different insurance companies have varying policies regarding traffic violations. Some may enforce a significant rate increase after a single violation, while others may be more forgiving.
- Time since the offence: Typically, the impact of a traffic violation on premiums diminishes over time, but it may take up to three years for the violation to no longer affect your rates as long as you keep your driving record clean.
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