What is the penalty for street racing in Ontario?
Under Highway Traffic Act s.172, racing or stunt driving carries a fine of $2,000 to $10,000, an immediate 30-day roadside licence suspension, a 14-day vehicle impoundment, 6 demerit points on conviction, a post-conviction licence suspension of 1 to 3 years on a first offence (up to 10 years on a second), and possible jail of up to 6 months.
Is my car impounded immediately for street racing?
Yes. In Ontario and several other provinces, police impound the vehicle at the roadside for 14 days the moment the charge is laid, regardless of whether you are later convicted. You are responsible for all towing and storage fees, which commonly run several hundred dollars.
Does street racing raise my insurance?
Dramatically. A racing or stunt driving conviction is a major/serious offence. Most standard insurers will refuse to renew, forcing you into the high-risk facility market where premiums can double or triple for at least three years.
Is street racing a criminal offence in Canada?
Most street racing charges are laid under provincial highway traffic statutes, which are quasi-criminal. However, dangerous driving or criminal negligence charges under the Criminal Code can also apply where there is a risk to public safety, and those carry a criminal record.