In the province of Ontario, driving under the influence of alcohol is not only a criminal offense but also a threat to public safety. As a compassionate personal injury law firm, we are aware of the devastating impact that drunk driving can have on victims and their families. In this article, we provide insights into the specific penalties and demerit points associated with driving under the influence in Ontario, as well as the avenues available for victims of drunk driving to file personal injury claims.

Penalties for Drunk Driving in Ontario

Ontario has enacted strict laws to deter individuals from driving while impaired. If caught driving under the influence, offenders face a range of penalties, including:

Fines: Convicted individuals can be subject to hefty fines, with the amount escalating for subsequent offenses.

License Suspension: Offenders face an immediate license suspension ranging from three days to several months, depending on the severity of the offense.

Ignition Interlock Device: In some cases, drivers may be required to install an ignition interlock device in their vehicles, which prevents the car from starting if alcohol is detected on the driver’s breath.

Mandatory Education Programs: Offenders may be mandated to attend alcohol education and treatment programs to address the root cause of their impaired driving.

Imprisonment: Serious offenses can lead to imprisonment, with sentences increasing for repeat offenders.

Demerit Points in Ontario

In addition to the aforementioned penalties, the Ministry of Transportation Ontario (MTO) imposes demerit points on the driving record of individuals convicted of impaired driving. These demerit points serve as a warning system, and the accumulation of points can result in further consequences, including:

6 Points: First offense may result in six demerit points.

4 Points: Subsequent offenses may result in four demerit points.

Personal Injury Claims for Victims

For victims of drunk driving accidents who wish to pursue a personal injury claim, our legal team is committed to obtaining justice and compensation. Victims may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, rehabilitation costs, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Pain and suffering refer to the emotional and physical distress experienced due to the accident, including anxiety, depression, and physical pain. Our team is committed to ensuring that victims receive the support they need during this challenging time.

Navigating the Legal Process

Filing a personal injury claim involves navigating a complex legal process, and our experienced lawyers work diligently to gather evidence, interview witnesses, and build a robust case demonstrating the negligence of the intoxicated driver.

Time is of the essence, as there are statutory limits for filing personal injury claims in Ontario. Our team ensures that the deadlines are met and victims receive the compensation they deserve.

As a reputable and compassionate personal injury law firm, we believe in holding those responsible accountable for their actions and strive to make the legal process as seamless as possible for our clients.

If you or a loved one has been a victim of a drunk driving accident, don’t hesitate to reach out to us by filling out our Contact Us form or call (905) 595-2225.