Street racing and speeding
Speeding and street racing are very dangerous activities which often cause serious accidents, injuries and even death for those involved, and sadly often for innocent bystanders as well. If you witness street racing happening in your neighbourhood, or if you know it is going to take place, call the police.
Street Racing
The Ottawa Police Service takes street racing seriously, and the consequences can be severe. Drivers who participate in street racing will face:
- An immediate seven-day license suspension
- A seven-day vehicle impoundment, regardless of whether the offender owns the vehicle or not
If convicted, offenders will face:
- A minimum fine between $200 and $2,000 and a maximum fine of up to $10,000
- A court-ordered license suspension, which is two years for a first conviction and 10 years for a second conviction
Individuals who drive more than 50 km/h above the posted speed limit are considered to be racing, or performing a stunt and are subject to all of the above penalties.
Speeding
Regular speeding fines are generally lower than those for street racing, but if you are driving well over the posted speed limit you can face serious fines and demerit points on your driver’s license.
You can find more information about the number of demerit points for different speeding offences at:
http://www.ottawapolice.ca/en/ServingOttawa/SectionsAndUnits/Traffic/Tickets/demerit.aspx
For more information about speeding, street racing and other traffic issues, visit the OPS website at:
http://www.ottawapolice.ca/en/ServingOttawa/SectionsAndUnits/Traffic/safety.aspx
You can also find out more about road safety in Ottawa through the City of Ottawa’s Integrated Road Safety Program, which is a partnership between Ottawa Public Health, Ottawa Police Services, Public Works and Services and community partner road safety advocates. These departments and road safety organizations work together to increase public awareness, to promote safe behaviours on the road, to establish road safety programs and enforcement initiatives.
http://www.ottawa.ca/residents/onthemove/driving/road_safety/index_en.html
