In Ontario, driving with a suspended license is taken very seriously by both law enforcement and the courts. The consequences extend beyond the immediate penalties, impacting your financial stability and social reputation. It’s crucial for any driver dealing with a suspension to understand what happens if you drive with a suspended license in Ontario, as the repercussions extend well beyond just the initial penalties.
What Happens If You Drive With a Suspended License and Get Caught?
The consequences are immediate and severe when you are caught driving while suspended in Ontario. Here’s a breakdown of what to expect:
Immediate Consequences of Driving While Suspended
- Vehicle impoundment:
- When caught, the police have the authority to impound your vehicle immediately. The period of impoundment depends on the situation and the number of offences you already have for driving with a suspended licence.
- Typically, vehicle impoundment starts with 7 days, but it also can be 45, 90 or even 180 days. The impoundment is immediate, and you are responsible for all towing and storage costs. There is no right to appeal the impoundment.
- Arrest and temporary holding: Depending on the circumstances, the police may arrest you. Factors include the reason for your suspension and your behaviour during the stop.
Legal Fines & Penalties for Driving While Suspended in Ontario
- Fines:
- First offence: Fines range from $1,000 to $5,000.
- Subsequent offences: Fines start from $2,000 and can be up to $5,000; and/or
- Jail time:
- First offence: Up to six months in jail.
- Subsequent offences: Increased likelihood of imprisonment and longer sentences.
- Driving licence suspension: your licence will be suspended for six additional months. This suspension is in addition to any current suspension period you are already serving and runs consecutively.
- Driving record: A conviction will forever be recorded on your driving abstract, visible to law enforcement.
- Insurance rates increase: Due to the high-risk designation, expect a significant increase in insurance premiums for the next three years.
- Employment impact: If your job requires a valid driver’s licence, you could face suspension or termination.
To see how the Criminal Code can elevate these penalties, check our article “Is Driving With a Suspended License a Criminal Offence in Ontario” for context on when fines give way to criminal sanctions.
After you have completed your suspension period and met any court-ordered conditions, you can start the process of reinstating your license. For detailed steps on this process, refer to our guide on how to get your license back after suspension in Ontario.
Driving While Under Suspension in Ontario & Insurance: Things You Didn’t Know
- First of all, it is worth saying that driving with a suspended license typically voids your insurance coverage. This means your insurance company is not obligated to cover any damages or injuries resulting from the accident.
- You could be held personally liable for all property damage and bodily harm resulting from the accident. This can include repairs to the other party’s vehicle, medical expenses, and compensation for pain and suffering.
- The other party involved in the accident may sue you directly for compensation, leading to significant financial burdens.
- Without insurance coverage, you will need to cover all costs out-of-pocket. This can be financially devastating, especially if there are extensive damages or severe injuries.
Driving with a suspended license in Ontario carries significant penalties, including vehicle impoundment, substantial fines, possible jail time, and further suspension of your driving privileges. The financial burden of fines, impound fees, and increased insurance rates can be overwhelming. Each case is unique, and the specifics of your situation, along with the strength of your defence, play a crucial role in determining the outcome.
Fighting such a charge is essential to minimize the financial and personal impact. To ensure the best possible defence, contact X-COPS. Our team of experienced traffic lawyers offers the expertise and representation needed to protect your rights and future. Discuss your case with us today and find out how we can help you achieve a favourable resolution.