Dangerous driving convictions can spur a hefty, as high as 156%, car insurance premium hike, says a new analysis by LowestRates.ca.
“Dangerous driving significantly increases your car insurance rates,” says LowestRates expert and licensed insurance broker Steven Harris.
“This is because it raises your risk profile in the eyes of insurance companies, leading to higher premiums and potential policy cancellation. Convictions for dangerous driving stay on your record for years, impacting your ability to find affordable insurance.”
As an example, the quoting firm produced a test quote for a hypothetical 35-year-old male driver who lives in downtown Toronto and drives a 2022 Honda Civic.
If that driver has a clean record, the quote shows he can expect to pay around $3,969 yearly for coverage. But adding a 2022 conviction for distracted driving that results in one-year licence suspension and policy cancellation could push that annual premium cost to $10,146.
“The increase could stay on file for several years and will increase if [the driver is] found responsible for causing an at-fault accident while [engaged in] distracted driving,” a LowestRates blog notes. In Ontario, a conviction may lead to a jail sentence and fines and can elevate a driver’s premium for up to five years.
What’s stunt driving?
Canada’s Criminal Code defines dangerous driving as incidents in which a vehicle is operated in ways posing a danger to others, causing bodily harm or leading to the death of another person(s).
This includes impaired and stunt driving. In addition to cars, trucks and vans, the laws encompass boats, railway equipment and aircraft.
And, the LowestRates blog notes, “if a driver is found driving in a manner that can pose a threat to public safety, they would need to appear in court.” Being found guilty can lead to penalties, including tickets, and a possible criminal record.
Ontario defines ‘stunt driving’ as travelling at speeds exceeding 40 km/h on roads with posted limits below 80 km/h, exceeding 50 km/h over the limit in zones posted at 80 km/h or more, and driving 150 km/h or more province-wide.
Drivers can also be charged with stunt driving if they prevent other vehicles from passing, intentionally cut off other vehicles or cause them to lose control, or drive too close to other vehicles, pedestrians or fixed objects. Street racing can also lead to stunt driving charges.
“If you’re facing a conviction, be proactive. Shop around and compare rates from different insurers yearly to find the best deal,” says Harris.
“This might take some time – expect to compare rates for up to six years. The conviction will remain on your record for three years and the licence suspension will impact your rates for up to six years. Practice safe driving habits to avoid any other incidents on your record, which will help keep your premiums stable until the offence is off your record.”
Feature image by iStock/Shisanupong Khankaew
