Aug 21, 2024
Stop sign fines in Ontario
Stop sign tickets are among the most common traffic tickets in Ontario. They occur when a driver fails to come to a complete stop at a stop sign, which may seem like a minor infraction but can have significant consequences.
If you are driving, it's important to understand the financial and Ontario insurance implications of receiving a stop sign ticket. This blog will examine the driving laws, fines, and insurance implications that can occur if you disobey a stop sign.
Three main takeaways about Ontario stop sign laws:
- Every driver must come to a complete stop at a stop sign intersection - demerits, fines, and increased premiums are a few repercussions of disobeying a stop sign.
- Many drivers opt to contest the ticket they receive for rolling through a stop sign.
- Understanding the law, obtaining proof, and considering legal support are key steps to consider.
What's on this page:
What are the driving laws around stop signs?What is the fine for going through a stop sign in Ontario?
How much does insurance increase after a stop sign ticket?
Ontario stop sign tickets FAQs
What are the driving laws around stop signs?
In Ontario, every driver is expected to obey traffic signs to allow other motorists to proceed with caution at intersections and avoid accidents. Failing to stop at a stop sign is considered an offence under the Ontario Highway Traffic Act, section 136(1):
136 (1) Every driver or street car operator approaching a stop sign at an intersection,
(a) shall stop his or her vehicle or street car at a marked stop line or, if none, then immediately before entering the nearest crosswalk or, if none, then immediately before entering the intersection; and
(b) shall yield the right of way to traffic in the intersection or approaching the intersection on another highway so closely that to proceed would constitute an immediate hazard and, having so yielded the right of way, may proceed. R.S.O. 1990, c. H.8, s. 136 (1).
When approaching a stop sign, it's important to come to a complete stop by stopping your vehicle's wheels from moving. Failing to do so will result in a traffic ticket
What is the fine for going through a stop sign in Ontario?
Drivers who do not come to a full and complete stop can face fines and penalties:
- Three demerit points.
- A fine of $110.00.
- Conviction registered on your driving record for three years.
- Increased insurance costs.
Disobeying a stop sign on a regular road can result in the fine above. The penalties are higher in a community safety zone and may vary by province or territory.
How much does insurance increase after a stop sign ticket?
It is possible for your insurance to increase when it’s time to renew if you have a ticket for disobeying a stop sign. Insurance companies view traffic violations as indicators of risky driving behaviour. As a result, receiving a stop sign ticket could cause your premiums to increase.
When a driver is convicted of disobeying a stop sign, the traffic ticket, including any demerit points, will remain on the driver’s record for three years.
The exact impact on your insurance depends on several factors, including:
- Driving history: If this is your first offence, the impact may be minimal. However, if you have a history of traffic violations, your rates could significantly increase.
- Your provider: Different insurance companies have varying policies regarding traffic violations. Some may enforce a significant rate increase after a single violation, while others may be more forgiving.
- Time since the offence: Typically, the impact of a traffic violation on your premiums diminishes over time, but it may take up to three years for the violation to no longer affect your rates if you maintain a clean driving record.
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Ontario stop sign tickets FAQs
The fine for a rolling stop at a stop sign in Ontario is $110, plus three demerit points on your driving record.
Yes, receiving a ticket for rolling through a stop sign in Ontario can lead to increased insurance rates, as it is considered a minor traffic violation that can impact your driving record and premiums.
In Ontario, a disobeying stop sign ticket results in three demerit points, which remain on your record for up to two years from the offence date.
The Highway Traffic Act does not specify how long the stop must be; it must be a full and complete stop. The perception of the officer may be different from the driver's, or the viewpoint may be obstructed.
When you follow road signs, you prevent policy increases
Getting a stop sign ticket in Ontario can affect your finances and car insurance premiums. Understanding the costs and potential consequences can help you make informed decisions about handling it. The best course of action is to drive carefully and always come to a complete stop at every stop sign to avoid these penalties.
