When it comes to traffic offences, overspeeding is one of the most common issues drivers encounter in Canada. Every individual operating a vehicle is obligated by law to adhere to preset speed limits. Sadly, even the most careful driver gets caught flouting traffic laws. Traffic violation ranges from drinking and driving overspeeding, tailgating, running a stop sign, illegal parking, etc.
Paying for a speeding ticket in Canada can be pretty overwhelming for some people. So, to help you prepare, this article will guide you through how to pay for a speeding ticket online in Canada.
Cost of Speeding in Canada
The cost of an overspeeding ticket depends on the exact speeding violation you are charged with. Overspeeding through a school zone attract a heavier penalty than going ten km over the limit on a highway. Below are some of the metrics traffic law enforcement uses to evaluate your speed violation:
- Monetary fines
The most common penalty when you get charged for a speeding violation is getting a ticket. Usually, the ticket’s amount is based on where you were speeding and the KM you were going. Generally, drivers guilty of exceeding the speed limit by 50 km/h or more face a punishment of up to CA$10,000 – CA$25,000 depending on their province in Canada.
- Demerit points
In some instances, a driver might be issued demerit points. A driver is at a disadvantage once given these points as they lead to more severe penalties.
- License Suspension
A driver(s) who already has demerit points or is caught in a stiff overspeeding situation might risk losing their driver’s license. They can also revoke your driver’s license for a month (30 days) or even six months.
Paying Speeding Ticket Online in Canada
You will find the fine amount payable at the bottom of the ticket. Some penalties will almost certainly affect your driving privileges as well as your insurance rates. Your insurer will assess your vehicle insurance premium rates, and if speeding fines appear on your driving record, your insurer will increase your premiums.
Below are steps on how to pay for a speeding ticket online in Canada
- Visit municipal court’s online system – every province in Canada has one.
- Enter your ticket information on the site
- Pay using a valid credit or debit card (Interac Online, Visa Credit, American Express, Visa Debit, MasterCard.)
- Enter your email address to receive the payment receipt
Ensure to use a current web browser when paying – Safari, Chrome, Firefox, Internet Explorer 9, etc.
Provincial Payment Link
Below is each province link to pay for speeding ticket in Canada:
- Alberta
- British Columbia
- New Brunswick
- Newfoundland and Labrador
- Northwest Territories
- Nova Scotia
- Manitoba
- Nunavut
- Ontario
- Prince Edwards Island
- Quebec
- Saskatchewan
- Yukon
Contesting Speeding Ticket
It is permissible to contest a ticket if you feel that you were wrongly fined. However, before you go ahead, you should evaluate the circumstances that lead to the event. Also, review the situation and assess your odds of winning. Once you have considered all evidence against you and you believe contesting the ticket will be in your favor, then you can go ahead.
Contesting a speeding ticket can be a tiring process, so it is crucial to know every detail of your ticket and possible setbacks so you can avoid them. Succumbing to a plea deal can be pretty tricky. Even though it can lead to a reduction in your fine, it will reflect on your record and make your insurance premiums increase.
Conclusion
Once you get a speeding ticket in Canada, decide whether you want to pay the fine or contest the ticket. Once you have decided on what to do, you can go ahead and make the necessary arrangements.
Note that your insurance costs may be affected each time you get a speeding ticket in Canada. So, if you’ve been issued a ticket, find out what your best alternatives are before you make any move.
If you don’t pay your fine before it’s due, you risk incurring additional fees. Also, be careful dealing with people or companies that promise to either lower your ticket penalty or make the claims go away. Remember that if it sounds too good to be true, it most likely is!
