Dangerous Driving Charges – Peel Region Defence Lawyers
Table of Contents
- Introduction: Why You Need an Expert Criminal Lawyer for Assault Charges
- What Is Assault Under Section 266 of the Criminal Code of Canada?
- What the Crown Must Prove
- Categories of Assault Charges
a. Simple Assault (Section 266)
b. Aggravated Assault (Section 268)
c. Assault with a Weapon or Causing Bodily Harm (Section 267) - Legal Consequences of Assault Convictions
- Common Defenses Against Assault Charges
a. Self-Defense
b. Consent
c. Lack of Intent
d. Mistaken Identity - Why Consulting a Criminal Lawyer Is Crucial
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Conclusion
Facing a Dangerous Driving charge is not the same as a traffic ticket—it’s a criminal offence under the Criminal Code of Canada, carrying the risk of a criminal record, license suspension, jail time, and severe insurance consequences.
At GS Associates, we defend clients charged with dangerous driving throughout Mississauga, Brampton, and the Peel Region. We understand what’s at stake—and we know how to fight back.
What is Dangerous Driving?
Under Section 320.13(1) of the Criminal Code, a person commits Dangerous Operation when:
“They operate a motor vehicle in a manner that is dangerous to the public, having regard to all of the circumstances.”
This charge is based on how you drove—not your intent. You may be charged even if no one was hurt.
Common Situations Leading to Charges
- Excessive speeding in heavy traffic
- Weaving or erratic lane changes
- Aggressive or reckless overtaking
- Running red lights at high speeds
- Causing a crash while distracted
- Driving while knowingly impaired or fatigued
Penalties for Dangerous Driving
If convicted, the consequences are serious:
- Criminal Record: Permanent unless pardoned
- License Suspension: Minimum 1 year (up to 10 years for repeat offences)
- Fines: No cap on indictable conviction
- Jail Time:
- Summary conviction: Up to 2 years less a day
- Indictable offence: Up to 10 years imprisonment
- Causing bodily harm: Up to 14 years
- Causing death: Up to life imprisonment
- Insurance Impact: Immediate and long-term increases or cancellation
How GS Associates Can Defend You
Our experienced defence team will:
- Challenge the prosecution’s evidence of what was “dangerous”
- Review dashcams, GPS data, and police reports
- Investigate road conditions, signage, and visibility
- Cross-examine police and witness testimony
- Argue for withdrawal, reduction to careless driving, or acquittal
In some cases, we can negotiate for diversion or no criminal record resolutions if you’re a first-time offender.
Dangerous Driving vs. Careless Driving
Dangerous Driving (Criminal Code) | Careless Driving (Provincial Offence) |
Criminal offence with jail risk | Traffic offence with fines |
Results in criminal record | No criminal record if convicted |
Federal jurisdiction | Provincial jurisdiction |
Harsher penalties | Milder, often no jail time |
Contact GS Associates Immediately
If you’re facing a Dangerous Driving charge, the stakes are high. Do not plead guilty without first speaking to a lawyer.
Call GS Associates today for a confidential consultation. We’ll protect your license, your freedom, and your future.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I be charged for threats made over text or email?
Yes. Threats made through electronic communication are treated as seriously as verbal threats.
What if the person didn’t believe my threat?
The complainant’s perception of the threat is a factor, but the Crown must also prove the intent and specific nature of the threat.
Are there alternatives to jail for an uttering threats conviction?
Yes. Alternatives such as probation, fines, or conditional discharges may be available, depending on the case.
Can I clear my record after a conviction for uttering threats?
A record suspension (formerly a pardon) may be possible after fulfilling the eligibility criteria.
Does it matter if I didn’t mean the threat?
Intent is a critical factor. If the threat was made without genuine intent, it can be used as a defence.