Stunt Driving

The Offense and Legal Consequences of Stunt Driving

Stunt driving is a serious offense in many jurisdictions and involves dangerous driving behavior that puts public safety at risk. Whether it’s speeding excessively, performing dangerous maneuvers, or engaging in reckless activities on the road, stunt driving can lead to severe penalties. If you’ve been charged with stunt driving, understanding the consequences and how to address the situation is crucial.

What Constitutes Stunt Driving?

Stunt driving typically refers to any action that goes beyond normal driving behavior and demonstrates a disregard for safety. Some common examples of stunt driving include:

Excessive Speeding: Driving at speeds more than 50 km/h over the posted speed limit.
Performing Donuts: Spinning the vehicle in circles in an uncontrolled manner.
Street Racing: Engaging in unauthorized racing on public roads.
Evasive Manoeuvres: Swerving or making other dangerous moves to avoid law enforcement or create a spectacle.
Burnouts: Spinning the tires of the vehicle while stationary or in motion, causing tire marks on the road.

In some jurisdictions, stunt driving can be charged even if no one is harmed, as it poses a significant risk to others on the road. Police officers may issue a ticket or arrest a driver caught performing stunts or engaging in dangerous behaviors.

Penalties for Stunt Driving

The penalties for stunt driving are severe because of the potential for accidents and injuries. The penalties can include:

Fines: Depending on the severity of the offense, fines for stunt driving can be substantial. Fines can range from several hundred dollars to thousands, depending on the jurisdiction and whether the driver is a repeat offender.
License Suspension: One of the most significant consequences of stunt driving is a driver’s license suspension. A suspension may last anywhere from 30 days to several years, depending on the offense and if the driver has previous violations.
Vehicle Impoundment: In some cases, the police may seize and impound the vehicle involved in the stunt driving for up to seven days or longer. The owner may also be required to pay fees for the impoundment and recovery of the vehicle.
Demerit Points: A stunt driving charge typically results in a significant number of demerit points added to your driving record. Accumulating too many points can lead to further penalties, including a potential license suspension.
Jail Time: For more severe instances of stunt driving, especially those involving collisions or injuries, jail time may be imposed. The possibility of incarceration can increase if there is a history of dangerous driving.
Increased Insurance Costs: A stunt driving conviction can lead to significant increases in your insurance premiums. Insurance companies view drivers with such offenses as higher-risk clients, leading to much higher rates for coverage.

Defenses Against a Stunt Driving Charge

If you’ve been charged with stunt driving, there may be several defenses available to contest the charge:

Lack of Intent: If you did not intend to perform a stunt and can demonstrate that the action was unintentional, this may be a valid defense.
Insufficient Evidence: The prosecution must prove beyond a reasonable doubt that you were engaged in stunt driving. If the evidence is insufficient or the circumstances were misunderstood by the officer, the charge may be dropped.
No Clear Danger: Some individuals argue that their actions, while seemingly reckless, did not put others at risk. If you can prove that the stunt did not endanger anyone or cause harm, this may reduce the severity of the charge.
Improper Charge: In some cases, the offense may not have qualified as stunt driving under the law. A paralegal can help determine if the charge was appropriate based on the details of the case.

How a Paralegal Can Help

A paralegal can assist with several aspects of dealing with a stunt driving charge, including:

Reviewing the Case: A paralegal can assess the details of the charge, the evidence against you, and the circumstances surrounding the incident to help determine the best course of action.
Legal Advice: Paralegals can explain your rights and help you understand your options, including whether contesting the charge is the best strategy.
Document Preparation: If you choose to fight the charge, a paralegal can help prepare necessary documents, file forms, and gather evidence to support your case.
Negotiation: Paralegals can also assist in negotiating a settlement, such as reducing fines or arranging for a less severe penalty. In some cases, they may help you secure a plea bargain or alternative penalties.
Court Representation: While paralegals cannot represent you in a criminal trial, they can assist with administrative hearings and filing necessary paperwork.

What to Do if You’re Charged with Stunt Driving

If you’re facing a stunt driving charge, it’s essential to act quickly:

Understand the Charge: Review the details of the ticket or arrest. Understand the specific allegations against you and the potential penalties.
Gather Evidence: If you plan to contest the charge, gather any evidence, such as witness statements, dashcam footage, or other relevant information that could help your case.
Consider Legal Help: Consult with a paralegal to discuss your options. They can offer guidance on whether contesting the charge or negotiating a settlement is in your best interest.
Prepare for the Consequences: Even if you contest the charge, be prepared for the possibility of fines, demerit points, or a suspension. If the charge is upheld, these consequences will apply.

Get Assistance from a Paralegal Today

If you’ve been charged with stunt driving, you don’t have to face it alone. A paralegal can provide valuable assistance to help you navigate the legal process, reduce penalties, and protect your driving privileges. Contact us today to discuss your case and explore your options.