Running a red light is a serious offence in Ontario, governed by section 144(18) of the Highway Traffic Act. If you’re caught violating this rule, you should be aware of the consequences, which include both financial penalties and demerit points on your driving record.
Financial Penalty
The cost of a red light ticket in Ontario, after including the victim fine surcharge, amounts to $325. This fee is a combination of the base fine and additional charges meant to support victims of crime.
Demerit Points
In addition to the financial impact, being convicted of running a red light also results in three demerit points being added to your licence. These points can affect your driving privileges and are a significant factor in assessing your driving behavior and history.
Impact on Insurance Rates
One of the long-term consequences of a red light ticket is the potential increase in your auto insurance rates. Since this offence is considered a moving violation, it signals to insurance companies that you may be a higher-risk driver, which often leads to higher premiums.
Video Transcription:
How much is a red-light ticket in Ontario? A red light ticket is covered under section 144, specifically section 18. So 144. 18 is the red light section. And in that particular section, it allows for certain penalties. So the penalty, the financial penalty, if convicted of that offence or if you decide you wish to pay the ticket, the penalty after victim fine surcharge is 325.
The further points that would be allotted to your licence would be three. So if convicted, you’d be looking at three demerit points. You’d be looking at a 325 fine and then shortly after that you could expect an insurance increase because that moving violation is now on your record.
