The Offence of Dangerous Driving in Canada – Speed is not Enough

By: Linh Pham, LL.B (hons), Criminal Defence Attorney Merchant Law Group LLP, Regina, Moose Jaw, Estevan, Weyburn, Carlyle lawyer

For many, driving is an everyday necessity, and you rely on be able to drive your livelihood. While you are probably aware that a DUI or impaired driving conviction will definitely result in a license suspension, few people know that dangerous driving charges can also lead to the revoking or suspension of your driving privilege. Fewer people even know that a dangerous driving charge can carry a prison sentence of up to 5 years depending on the severity of the incident. And dangerous driving causes injury is an indictable offense Saskatoon criminal lawyer carrying a punishment of up to 10 years in federal prison..

Dangerous driving does not just include just cars but “motor vehicles” such as boats, airplanes, and sleds are also included per the Criminal Code.

In short – the legal test for establishing a conviction for dangerous driving is - was the Accused’s driving, a “marked departure” from that expected of a reasonable person?

In determining if there was a marked departure, the courts look at various factors such as the road conditions; visibility; the driver’s manner of driving; the driver’s speed; and other factors.

SPEED alone is not sufficient to secure a conviction for dangerous driving. Even if you are convicted of dangerous driving, a good criminal defence lawyer may be able to secure you a fair deal depending on your circumstances. Find a lawyer that will take the time to listen to your case. It is your constitutional right.

If you are charged with dangerous driving or another criminal charge like DUI or 0.08 under the Criminal Code, it is very important that you consider consulting a lawyer.

Your rights may affected and it is necessary for you to have an experienced and competent Criminal Defence Lawyer to provide you with legal advice and protect your legal rights.

Linh Pham regularly make appearances regularly in Carlyle, Estevan, Moose Jaw, Moosomin, Weyburn, and other locations. Sometimes you need a serious lawyer for your serious legal problems.

The information provided on this page is for education purposes only and is not intended to be relied upon as legal advice.

If you need legal advice, contact a lawyer like Linh Pham. Call: 306-502-5987.