i.
What the charge means
Section 130 of the HTA covers a marked departure from the standard of care a reasonable person would observe. Often charged following a collision.
Highway Traffic Act s.130
Careless Driving charges in Toronto, Ontario.
Driving without due care and attention or without reasonable consideration for others. Often laid following an accident — 6 demerit points and insurance impact significant.
- Courthouse
- Toronto Provincial Offences Court
- Court Phone
- (416) 338-7000
- Consultation
- Free & Confidential
ii.
Penalties
Fine $400–$2,000; up to 6 months imprisonment; licence suspension up to 2 years; 6 demerit points. A conviction is a major insurance offence.
iii.
Available defences
- Momentary lapse vs marked departure
- Mechanical failure
- Sudden emergency or third-party act
- Disclosure deficiencies
iv.
The process
Disclosure, accident reconstruction review, pre-trial discussions to reduce to a lesser HTA offence where appropriate.
v.
Notes for Toronto
Toronto's POA matters are heard at 137 Edward Street; summary criminal charges are heard at the new Toronto Courthouse on Armoury Street, College Park, and the Ontario Court of Justice at Old City Hall (where still in operation). We appear at all of them.
Toronto Provincial Offences Court
137 Edward Street, Toronto, ON M5G 0A8
(416) 338-7000
Charged with careless driving?
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