Best Speeding & Traffic Ticket Lawyers in Pickering

About Speeding & Traffic Ticket Law in Pickering, Canada

Speeding and traffic ticket laws in Pickering, Ontario, fall under provincial jurisdiction, primarily enforced by the Ontario Highway Traffic Act and local by-laws. The City of Pickering, like other municipalities in the Greater Toronto Area, works closely with the Durham Regional Police Service to enforce traffic safety and compliance. Individuals may receive tickets for speeding, running red lights, careless driving, distracted driving, and other infractions. Depending on the severity, infractions can result in fines, demerit points, license suspensions, increased insurance rates, and even criminal charges in some cases.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

While many people simply pay their traffic tickets and move on, there are several situations where seeking legal advice is strongly advisable:

• Disputing the ticket due to incorrect facts or errors by the officer
• Facing substantial fines, demerit points, or risk of license suspension
• Receiving multiple tickets or having a history of infractions
• Commercial drivers and individuals whose job depends on a clean driving record
• Cases involving potential criminal charges, like stunt driving or dangerous driving
• To possibly reduce penalties or secure a plea bargain
• Unfamiliarity with court procedures and legal technicalities
• Disputing tickets issued by automated cameras or for out-of-province drivers

Local Laws Overview

Most speeding and traffic offences in Pickering are governed by the Ontario Highway Traffic Act (HTA). Some key points include:

• Speeding: Fines and demerit points increase based on the amount over the speed limit. Excessive speeding (50 km/h or more) may result in immediate license suspension and vehicle impoundment.
• Red Light Cameras: Running a red light at a camera-equipped intersection generates an automatic ticket to the vehicle owner.
• Demerit Point System: Accumulating too many points can lead to license suspension or probation, especially for novice drivers.
• Distracted Driving: Using a handheld device while driving results in stiff fines and escalating penalties for repeat offenders.
• Parking Violations: Handled under municipal by-laws and may result in ticketing or towing.
• Bylaw Enforcement: Pickering may have city-specific rules that supplement provincial laws, particularly around school zones and construction areas.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I do after receiving a speeding ticket in Pickering?

You can choose to pay the ticket, plead guilty with an explanation, or request a trial to dispute it. Review the ticket instructions carefully and respond by the indicated deadline.

How many demerit points will I get for speeding?

Demerit points for speeding range from 3 to 6, depending on how much you exceeded the speed limit. For example, 16-29 km/h over the limit is 3 points, 30-49 km/h is 4 points, and 50 km/h or more is 6 points.

Can a lawyer help me reduce or dismiss my ticket?

Yes, a lawyer or licensed paralegal can review your case for errors, seek plea deals, represent you in court, and potentially reduce fines, points, or help get the charges withdrawn.

How do traffic tickets affect my insurance?

Insurers review your driving record when setting premiums. Convictions for speeding or other infractions can lead to higher rates, especially for repeat or serious offences.

Will a minor speeding ticket show up on my police record?

Traffic tickets are considered provincial offences, not criminal, so they do not appear on your criminal record. However, convictions remain on your driving abstract for several years.

Can I ignore a ticket from a red light camera?

Ignoring a ticket can result in additional fees and collection action. Unpaid tickets may impact your ability to renew your vehicle registration or driver’s license.

How do I dispute a ticket in Pickering?

You must follow the instructions on the back of your ticket, typically by submitting a request for trial at the indicated court office within the prescribed time limit.

What happens at a traffic court trial?

A Justice of the Peace hears evidence from the officer and the ticketed driver. You can question witnesses, present evidence, and make submissions. A legal representative can help navigate the process.

Can I get my license suspended for speeding?

For ordinary speeding, you won’t have your license suspended unless you accumulate too many demerit points. However, “stunt driving” or being 50 km/h or more over the limit can trigger immediate roadside suspension.

Do I need to attend court in person for my traffic ticket?

You or your representative may need to attend court, but some preliminary matters and proceedings can be handled remotely or by a legal professional on your behalf.

Additional Resources

• Ontario Ministry of Transportation (MTO): Information on driver licensing, demerit points, and suspensions
• Durham Regional Police Service: Enforcement information and local traffic safety initiatives
• City of Pickering Bylaw Services: Local parking and bylaw infractions
• Ontario Court of Justice: Details on traffic ticket payments and court proceedings
• Legal Aid Ontario: Limited legal advice and resources for low-income residents
• The Law Society of Ontario: Find licensed lawyers and paralegals

Next Steps

If you have received a speeding or traffic ticket in Pickering and are unsure how to proceed, consider the seriousness of the allegation and your driving history. For minor tickets, you may choose to pay or represent yourself. If there is a significant impact on your license, insurance, or employment, it is wise to consult a traffic ticket lawyer or paralegal. They can assess your case, explain your options, and offer representation in court if necessary. Collect all relevant documents before your consultation to streamline the process.

Take note of deadlines listed on your ticket for responding or requesting a trial, as missing these can limit your options. Use available online resources for initial information and contact a qualified legal professional for tailored advice.