What is considered Distracted Driving in Ontario?
Cell Phone Tickets | Distracted Driving
What is Distracted Driving?
“Distracted Driving” distracted driving ontario refers to the act of operating a motor vehicle while engaging in activities that divert the driver’s attention away from the road. In Ontario, there is no such charge as distracted driving, but the term is used to encompass several offences, such as driving with a handheld device, texting and driving, touching a cell phone while driving, driving while holding or using an entertainment device, and many more.
Section 78 and 78.1 of the Highway Traffic Act outlines that no person shall drive a motor vehicle on a highway while holding or using a hand-held wireless communication device or other telecommunication device that is capable of receiving or transmitting telephone communications, electronic data, e-mail or text messages.
At least some form of distracted driving accounts for 80% of all traffic collisions, 21% of which are fatal. If convicted of any kind of distracted driving offence, it will lead to significant penalties and will have lasting effects on one’s licence, driving record and insurance premiums.
What is considered Distracted Driving in Ontario?
The term distracted driving refers to a category of charges that involve engaging in prohibited activities while operating a motor vehicle.
These activities include:
Using a hand-held electronic device: This includes talking, texting, dialling, emailing, browsing the internet, using social media, or any other form of communication using a hand-held device.
Holding or operating a handheld device: Even if you are not actively using the device, simply holding it or manipulating its buttons or features is considered distracted driving.
Viewing display screens: It is illegal to view display screens unrelated to driving, such as watching videos, looking at images, or scrolling through social media feeds while operating a vehicle.
Using electronic entertainment devices: Operating in-vehicle entertainment systems, including DVD players or portable video game consoles, that are visible to the driver is prohibited.
There are several exceptions in which you may have a defence to these charges. If you have been charged with a distracted driving ticket in Ontario, reach out to us and we would be happy to discuss your specific circumstances. We have decades of combined experience defending these charges in court.
Impact on driving record
Although not a criminal offence, the use of a handheld communication device is seen as a very serious charge. Because of the statistics and studies surrounding accidents related to the use of hand-held communication devices and distracted driving, your insurance company will view a conviction under this section as a very serious offence. It is prudent to have the charge withdrawn or at least reduced to maintain the integrity of your driving record, to save or reduce the demerit points and to eliminate the mandatory suspension.
How we can help you fight distracted driving charges
Traffic Paralegal Services has decades of combined experience in fighting handheld charges in all their different forms throughout Ontario.
We have effectively protected our clients’ rights and driver’s records in court and our objectives are always to:
Win your case
Reduce the charges to a lesser degree
Avoid any driving suspensions; and,
Avoid or minimize any increases to your insurance
We charge a set fee for handheld device offences which will include all work on your file, from start to finish with no additional or hidden fees. The court process can be quite confusing and intimidating. On your trial date, our experienced paralegals will advocate on your behalf, to get you the best possible outcome.
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Responding to Traffic Tickets
When issued a ticket, individuals have three options. They can choose to pay the fine and accept the associated penalties, attend an early resolution meeting with the prosecutor, or a trial. Consulting with a traffic ticket defence paralegal to seek legal assistance for fighting tickets is advisable, as we can provide expert advice and represent your interests in court.
Traffic Ticket Impact and Consequences
Tickets can have a significant impact on various aspects of a driver’s life. Additionally, multiple convictions for traffic offences may have long-term consequences on employment opportunities and professional licensing.
Accumulating tickets and their associated penalties can lead to:
Increased insurance premiums
Problems with the Ministry of Transportation for too many Demerit points
License suspensions, downgrade in your license class or revocations
Fines, Penalties, and Points Systems
The fines and penalties associated with tickets depend on the specific offence. Ontario uses a demerit point system, where each conviction may result in a predetermined number of points that are added to the driver’s record. These points can lead to potential license suspensions or a downgrade in license class. The fines for traffic offences also vary, with more severe violations resulting in greater penalties.
Driver’s License Suspensions or Revocations
Certain traffic violations in Ontario can lead to driver’s license suspensions or revocations. Repeat offenders, particularly those convicted of stunt driving or driving while suspended, may face license suspensions ranging from months to years. In extreme cases, a driver’s license may be permanently revoked, prohibiting the individual from operating a motor vehicle.
Legal Assistance and Traffic Ticket Paralegals
Seeking legal assistance for fighting traffic tickets is an option that many individuals choose to explore. We as Traffic ticket defence paralegals specialize in navigating the complex legal landscape surrounding traffic offences. We can analyze the circumstances of the violation, identify potential defences, negotiate with prosecutors, and represent our clients in court, aiming to minimize or eliminate the associated penalties.
Understanding tickets and their implications is crucial for all drivers in Ontario. Familiarizing oneself with traffic ticket categories, common violations, and the consequences of traffic offences enables individuals to make informed decisions. When facing a ticket, it is advisable to seek legal assistance from an experienced traffic ticket defence paralegal, who can provide guidance and representation throughout the legal process. By taking the appropriate steps, individuals can protect their rights, minimize the impact of the penalties, and ensure road safety for themselves and others.
How We Can Help You Fight Your Traffic Tickets
Pleading guilty to a traffic ticket and paying a fine without getting legal advice can be a very costly mistake, especially when it impacts your insurance rates. At TPS, we understand the impact that a conviction from a charge can have on your life. This is why our target is always to get your charges completely withdrawn or dismissed. In the event that this is not possible, then we will work to get the best results possible.
Traffic Paralegal Services (TPS): Defending Your Traffic Tickets in Ontario
Founded with a mission to represent and assist individuals facing traffic-related charges, Traffic Paralegal Services (TPS) has become an esteemed establishment within Ontario’s legal community. Operating exclusively in the realm of traffic violations, TPS offers unparalleled focus and commitment to the cases it undertakes.
Field of Activity
Ontario’s Provincial Offences Act and Highway Traffic Act govern a vast array of violations, from speeding to more severe infractions like Stunt and Careless Driving. Navigating the complexities of these acts requires deep knowledge and unwavering precision. At TPS, our paralegals are adept in the nuances of these laws, ensuring clients are provided with the best paralegal services.
Experience Matters
Over the years, TPS has represented a plethora of clients, from first-time offenders to individuals with more intricate cases. Our track record resonates with success stories, where charges were either reduced substantially or dismissed entirely. This legacy of successful defence is attributed to our continuous study of Ontario’s ever-evolving traffic laws and meticulous case preparation.
Our Commitment
At TPS, the core of our operations revolves around the rights and interests of our clients. We understand the ramifications a conviction can have on an individual’s life, both immediate and long-term. Beyond just the financial aspect, the potential damage to one’s driving record, heightened insurance premiums, and overall peace of mind are of concern. Hence, our approach is not merely transactional; it’s personal. Every client, every case receives our undivided attention, ensuring we chart out the best possible legal pathway forward.
In the intricate web of Ontario’s traffic laws, having a dedicated paralegal firm like TPS by your side can make all the difference. Entrust us with your concerns, and let our legacy of diligence and success be your guide.
The Advantage of Our Traffic Paralegal Services in Ontario
In the complex realm of Ontario’s traffic regulations, Traffic Paralegal Services (TPS) stands out as a steadfast advocate for individuals who have received a traffic ticket.
Why Opt for Our Paralegal Services?
TPS isn’t just another legal firm; we’re a specialized traffic law paralegal service. This specialization means every case benefits from in-depth, focused knowledge, ensuring a tailored and potent defence strategy. Moreover, paralegals, especially those from TPS, offer an affordable and equally competent alternative to traditional traffic ticket lawyers.
Focused Services Over Broad Representation
Our team goes beyond simple representation. We delve deep into each case, demystifying complexities and guiding our clients every step of the way. We believe in proactive defence. Thus, our paralegals remain updated with the nuances of Ontario’s ever-evolving traffic laws, ensuring our clients are always a step ahead.
Affordable, Yet Comprehensive
Choosing a paralegal, especially for traffic-related cases, can be a cost-effective decision without compromising on quality or expertise. With traffic law as our sole focus, TPS paralegals provide dedicated and pinpointed services, often at a fraction of the cost of traditional traffic lawyers.
Traffic Violation Paralegal: A Versatile Solution
Whether you’re facing a minor ticket or a more serious charge, our team is equipped to handle all traffic-related concerns. We understand the gravity tied to each violation and craft our defence strategies with precision.
The TPS Benefit
Choosing TPS isn’t just about legal defence; it’s about peace of mind. Our commitment to clear communication, meticulous case handling, and affordable rates make us a preferred choice for many. In Ontario, where traffic laws can have lasting implications, having TPS’s specialized and cost-effective paralegals by your side offers both assurance and expert guidance.
Traffic Offences
We strive to achieve the best results for your traffic offence, including:
Speeding Tickets
Careless Driving Charges
Stunt Driving Charges
Accident Charges
Red Light / Amber Light Charges
Stop Sign Charges
Following Too Closely
Hand-Held Communication Devices or Cell phone Charges
Turn Not in Safety
Seat Belts
HOV – High Occupancy Vehicle Charges
Unsafe Move Lane or Shoulder
Disobey Sign
Drive Wrong Way
School Bus Tickets
Failure to Use Lower Beam
Race the Motor Vehicle
Failure to Remain
Drive Under Suspension
No Insurance
Drive With No License
Novice Drivers B.A.C. Above Zero
Failure to Yield
Improper Right Turn
Failure to Yield to a Pedestrian
Attempt to Pass Roadway Not Clear
Use Center Lane Improperly
Failed to Move Into Another Lane for Emergency Vehicle
Pleading guilty to a traffic ticket and paying a fine without getting legal advice can be a very costly mistake, especially when it impacts your insurance rates. We at TPS understand the impact that a conviction from a charge can have on your life, which is why our goal is to get your charges completely withdrawn or dismissed. In the event that this is not possible, we will work to get the best results possible.
Traffic Paralegal Services
16009 Airport Rd. Caledon East, ON
905-860-1112
905-860-1115
admin@trafficparalegalservices.com
Monday to Friday 8:30am to 5:30pm