What is Stunt Driving in Ontario? Laws and Safety Tips 2025

Stunt driving is a criminal offense in Ontario with severe penalties and is more than simply a reckless thrill. Ever you think what is stunt driving in Ontario? One can envision high-speed chases or daring feats seen in films. But in actuality:

Speeding 40km/h or more over the posted speed limit if the restriction is less than 80km/h, or 50km/h or more if the limit is 80km/h or more.

In this blog post, we will cover what is stunt driving, and the issues related to it.

What is Stunt Driving in Ontario?

Stunt driving is not only about the high speed there are several other actions that are included in stunt driving like:

40km/h or more over the posted speed limit if the restriction is less than 80km/h, or 50km/h or more if the limit is 80km/h or more.
When you drive a car at a speed that is far higher than the posted limit. The term “marked departure from the lawful rate of speed” refers to a speed that may impair the driver’s capacity to respond to changing situations on the highway prudently.
Driving a motor vehicle at a speed of 150 kilometers per hour or more is included in stunt driving
When you try to turn left at an intersection before the other direction vehicles could pass first and safely
It also comes in stunt driving when your drive with sole goal of causing some or all tires to lose traction.
Driving two or more motor vehicles side by side or in close proximity, with one vehicle occupying a designated traffic lane for longer than necessary to pass another.
If you races by separating yourself from other vehicles by quick acceleration
Pulling sleds, carrying people in the cab of a pick-up truck or normal trunk
Passing one or more vehicles at speeds that exceed the speed limit.
Following another car (not to be confused with)
Attempting to exit a motor vehicle by releasing the steering wheel or standing on a motor bicycle;
Any sort of wheel burnout, doughnut, or wheelie on a motorbike.
Pulling sleds, carrying people in the cab of a pick-up truck or normal trunk.
Passing one or more vehicles at speeds that come in stunt driving speeds.
When you drives a motor vehicle without sitting in the driver’s seat its also stunt driving.
Without proper care and attention driving, or without reasonable concern for other vehicles on the highway

What is the Stunt Driving Criminal Code?

Stunt driving in Ontario is primarily dealt with under provincial laws, specifically the Highway Traffic Act. Stunt driving criminal code is applied in extreme cases where dangerous driving causes bodily harm or death. Offenders may face criminal charges, which can result in more severe penalties, such as longer jail terms and higher fines.

Stunt Driving Statistics in Ontario

The Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) reported over 10,000 charges in 2020 for stunt driving and street racing. A significant proportion of young drivers aged 16 to 25 were the victims.
The Ministry of Transportation Ontario (MTO) highlighted aggressive driving as a leading cause of road fatalities and injuries in Ontario.
Stunt driving incidents are more frequent in urban areas, particularly the Greater Toronto Area (GTA), due to high population density and busy roads.
The OPP reported a 200% increase in stunt driving charges during the initial lockdown periods of COVID-19.
On average, over 7,500 drivers face license suspensions annually due to stunt driving offenses.

Stunt Driving in Ontario Laws

The MOMS Act (Moving Ontarians More Safely Act 2021) went into effect on July 1, 2021, and includes new provisions to fight risky driving and improve road safety. This new regulation includes longer suspension and impoundment periods for Ontario drivers who participate in stunt and street racing.

First Offense Stunt Driving Penalties

In Ontario, the penalties for first-time stunt driving offenses include six demerit points and up to six months in jail.
(14) fourteen days of instant motor vehicle impoundment;
For the first occurrence, the minimum stunt driving fine is $2,000 and can go up to $10,000, with a 25% victim surcharge.
Mandatory roadside license suspension for thirty (30) days.
Driver’s license suspension upon conviction: from one to three years.
Mandatory driver improvement course.

Second Offense Stunt Driving Penalties

In Ontario, stunt driving demerits points are 6 as a second offense of stunt driving penalties and up to six months in jail.
(14) fourteen days of instant motor vehicle impoundment
Stunt driving charges are from $2,000 and up to $10,000, with a 25% victim surcharge.
Licenses are immediately suspended for 30 days.
Driver’s license suspension upon conviction: for up to ten years.
Mandatory driver improvement course.

Third Offense Stunt Driving Penalties

For a third or subsequent offense, stunt driving demerits points are 6 and up to six months in jail.
Immediate vehicle impoundment for 14 days;
Minimum stunt driving fine – $2,000 and up to $10,000, with a 25% victim surcharge.
Licenses are immediately suspended for 30 days.
After a conviction, a driver’s license is suspended for life.
Mandatory driver improvement course.

Stunt driving convictions require a driver improvement course within 60 days in Ontario. With penalties including license revokement and automatic 30-day suspension. If you fails to pay fines this will result in license suspension. High-risk insurance companies may charge high monthly rates for 3-6 years.

What to do if Stunt Driving Charges?

If you’ve been charged with stunt driving in Ontario follow this guideline to handle situation wisely:

Stop using your vehicle right away
Produce proof of reinstatement, and recover your vehicle to avoid costly costs.
You can go to court or employ a stunt driving counsel.
Reinstating your license is critical, as a single conviction will remain on your record for three years, resulting in greater fines and penalties.
This may also impede future employment applications in governmental agencies.

Conclusion

Stunt driving in Ontario is a serious offense with severe consequences, including fines, demerit points, license suspensions, and jail time. Understanding the laws and penalties is crucial for drivers to avoid penalties and contribute to safer roads.

G-Class Driving School offers comprehensive courses covering road safety, advanced techniques, and Ontario laws. Enroll now to improve your driving skills, avoid dangerous behaviors like stunt driving, and gain confidence in responsible driving.

FAQs

What qualifies as stunt driving in Ontario?
Stunt driving in Ontario includes actions such as speeding 50 km/h or more over the posted limit, performing dangerous driving maneuvers like drifting or wheelies, and street racing.

Can You Go to Jail for Stunt Driving in Ontario?

Yes, you can go to jail for stunt driving in Ontario. If convicted, you can face up to 6 months in jail. In addition, extreme cases involving dangerous driving that leads to injury or death can result in criminal charges under the Criminal Code, leading to even longer jail terms.

How long does stunt driving stay on your record in Ontario?
A stunt driving conviction stays on your driving record for three years.

How do you beat a stunt driving charge in Ontario?
To beat a stunt driving charge, consider hiring a skilled traffic lawyer who can examine the evidence, challenge the charges, and negotiate with the prosecution on your behalf.

How much over the speed limit can you go in Ontario?
In Ontario, driving 50 km/h or more over the posted speed limit is considered stunt driving and carries severe penalties.