Stunt driving might seem like an adrenaline-fueled adventure, but it’s a serious offence with implications far beyond a traffic ticket. For drivers in Canada, it's crucial to understand how such convictions affect not only safety but also your wallet through increased insurance premiums.
The Financial Impact
A conviction of stunt or dangerous driving can drastically increase your car insurance premiums, sometimes by as much as 150%. This significant hike is due to the perception by insurance companies that you pose a higher risk. For years following the conviction, drivers can pay substantially more for their coverage.
Imagine you're a 35-year-old driving a 2022 Volkswagen Jetta in downtown Toronto. With a clean record, you might pay around $4,000 annually for insurance. However, a conviction for stunt driving, coupled with a one-year license suspension, can spike this cost to approximately $10,000 annually. This financial burden can linger for up to six years, even as the formal conviction sits on your record for three.
Real-Life Consequences
Stunt driving doesn’t discriminate; it can affect anyone who engages in risky driving behaviours. Beyond financial repercussions, drivers convicted of stunt driving may face policy cancellations and lose the ability to find affordable insurance options. The charge can also entail court appearances, where penalties might include fines, license suspensions, or even jail time – not to mention the risk this poses to other drivers and pedestrians.
Consider John, who was found guilty of stunt driving after exceeding the speed limit by over 50 km/h. His insurance premiums doubled, and his license was suspended for six months, leaving him reliant on public transport for daily commutes. This incident served as a harsh reminder of the real-world implications of stunt driving.
What Constitutes Stunt Driving?
Knowing what constitutes stunt driving is vital for all drivers. In Ontario, this includes exceeding specific speed limits, impeding other vehicles from passing and exhibiting aggressive driving behaviours such as tailgating. Understanding these definitions can help you stay within legal limits and avoid costly breaches.
Taking Proactive Steps
For those already facing a stunt-driving conviction, proactive measures, such as annually comparing insurance rates across different companies, can help mitigate financial impacts. It is essential to practice safe driving habits consistently; this diligence helps maintain stable insurance premiums and removes offences from your record over time.
Stay Informed and Drive Safely
Stunt driving is a costly mistake, both financially and legally. Awareness and understanding of the laws can protect you from unnecessary risks. At EasyInsure, we encourage all drivers to prioritize safety over speed. Be informed, drive responsibly, and let your smooth driving record be the ticket to lower insurance rates, and reach out to us if we can help you:
info@easyinsure.ca