Every successful defence begins with a clear plan. With over two decades of experience, we’ve developed a proven four-step case assessment process that guides you from uncertainty to resolution with confidence and clarity.
Impaired Driving Defence Centre
DUI Defence Services -
Stunt/Racing Charges
Schedule a FREE assessmentReputation you can trust with over 20 years of experience.
Call now 1-877-497-3927
Schedule a FREE assessment
Many DUI cases start with a stunt driving stop. Police pull a driver over for excessive speed or another stunt driving allegation, then suspect alcohol or drug use. If this happens, you can end up facing both stunt driving and impaired driving charges. We defend both, because a stunt driving conviction on its own can carry penalties that are more severe than a first-time DUI.
Stunt driving is defined in Ontario’s Highway Traffic Act and can include many different types of driving behaviour. It is most often one of the following, but this is a non-exhaustive list:
- 50 km/h or more over the posted limit where the limit is 80 km/h or higher
- 40 km/h or more over the posted limit where the limit is under 80 km/h
- Any kind of race or contest of speed, including from a red light
Most stunt driving charges we see are speed-related, but other conduct — such as weaving dangerously through traffic, intentionally cutting off another vehicle, or driving in a way that endangers others — can also result in the same charge and penalties.
Example: Driving 95 km/h in a 50 km/h zone on the outskirts of town will trigger an immediate roadside suspension and vehicle impoundment. If convicted, you will lose your licence for a minimum of one year, even if you were not impaired.
Under the Highway Traffic Act, stunt driving convictions carry progressive licence suspensions:
- First offence: Minimum 1-year suspension
- Second offence: Minimum 3-year suspension
- Third offence: Lifetime suspension (may be reduced to 10 years if there are no further infractions such as driving while suspended)
Additional penalties include:
- 14-day vehicle impoundment
- Fines of $2,000 to $10,000
- 6 demerit points
- Sharp insurance premium increases or cancellation of coverage
If you are also facing a DUI, you could win the DUI case and still lose your licence for years because of the stunt driving conviction. The stunt driving suspension is often longer than for a first-time impaired driving conviction. Protecting your ability to drive means defending both charges strategically.
We examine the accuracy of the speed measurement, whether the officer followed proper procedures, and whether there is room to negotiate a reduction to a lesser offence such as speeding or careless driving.
We provide experienced defence for both DUI and stunt driving charges across Ontario. Call us today to discuss your case and start protecting your licence.
FAQs — Stunt Driving in Ontario
Q: What is considered stunt driving in Ontario?
A: Stunt driving includes excessive speeding (50 km/h over in an 80+ zone, or 40 km/h over in a zone under 80), racing, and other dangerous driving behaviours such as weaving through traffic or cutting off another vehicle. The list is non-exhaustive, meaning other dangerous driving actions can also qualify.
Q: Is stunt driving a criminal offence in Ontario?
A: No. Stunt driving is a provincial offence under the Highway Traffic Act, not a criminal charge. However, the penalties can be more severe than a first-time impaired driving suspension.
Q: Can a stunt driving charge be reduced to speeding?
A: In some cases, it is possible to negotiate a reduction to a lesser offence such as speeding or careless driving, which may carry fewer penalties. This depends on the evidence and the circumstances of the case.
Q: How to fight a stunt driving charge in Ontario?
A: A defence may include challenging the accuracy of the speed measurement, questioning the officer’s observations, or negotiating a plea to a lesser charge. Legal advice is critical because of the severe penalties.
With serious penalties on the line, you owe it to yourself to get proper legal advice and build a strong defence.
Call now 1-877-497-3927
Schedule a FREE assessment
OUR LEGAL ASSESSMENT PROCESS
1
COMPLIMENTARY ASSESSMENT
This is a full hour-long consultation, not a sales pitch. We take the time to understand you, not just the charge. We’ll talk through what happened, how you're doing, what the court process will look like, the potential outcomes, defence costs, and your most pressing questions. You’ll leave the call with a clear roadmap and the confidence of knowing what happens next.
2
Intake and Set-Dates
Once you’ve hired us, we take over the administrative burden. We’ll obtain all police disclosure and appear at every set-date court appearance on your behalf, so you don’t have to miss work or worry about procedure. Behind the scenes, we’re already reviewing your file and preparing for the real fight ahead.
3
Analysis and Pre-Trials
Our entire team meets to analyze the disclosure, identify viable defences, and research the legal and factual issues in your case. We consult with you before engaging the Crown, either to set a trial date or negotiate a resolution that protects your future. You’re kept in the loop, but we carry the legal weight for you.
4
Hearing Date
This is where it all comes together—either in trial or in resolution. Mr. Avery will be in court beside you, fully prepared to protect your rights and secure the best possible outcome. Whether we’re arguing for an acquittal or negotiating final terms, your case is in the hands of an experienced advocate who knows how to win.
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Chris Avery and his team at Avery Law are outstanding. From the start, Chris was straightforward, knowledgeable, and easy to talk to. He... Read more
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Mike
20/06/2025
We had an amazing experience working with Chris. From start to finish, they were professional, knowledgeable, and truly dedicated to our case. They... Read more
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I had the privilege of working with Christopher and Erica, and I can confidently say they are a class above the rest. I... Read more
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02/03/2025
Chris Avery and his legal team recently represented me in defending a legal matter against me. I am extremely happy with the result... Read more
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BD
10/10/2023
Mr. Avery whent above and beyond for me and was able to have my charges withdrawn. I highly recommend him to anyone looking... Read more
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