What Happens if I Don't Fight a Careless Driving Charge?

Fight a Careless Driving Charge

If you don't fight a careless driving charge in Ontario and are convicted, it can have significant repercussions on your insurance. Careless driving charges fall under section 130 of the Highway Traffic Act in Ontario. Here's what typically happens to your insurance if you don't contest a careless driving charge:

Fight a Careless Driving Charge to Avoid Increased Premiums

One of the immediate consequences is that your insurance premiums are likely to increase substantially. Careless driving is a serious offense by insurance companies, and they may deem you as a high-risk driver. As a result, your premiums could skyrocket, costing you hundreds or even thousands of dollars more each year.

Loss of Discounts

A careless driving conviction may also result in the loss of any discounts or benefits you were receiving on your insurance policy. Many insurance providers offer discounts for safe driving records, and a conviction for careless driving can nullify these benefits, further increasing your premiums.

Difficulty Finding Coverage

Some insurance companies may choose not to renew your policy or even cancel your coverage altogether following a careless driving conviction. This can leave you in a difficult situation, as finding alternative insurance coverage may be challenging and expensive, particularly if labeled as a high-risk driver.

Impact on Future Policies

Even if you're able to secure insurance coverage after a careless driving conviction, it's likely to have your options limited, and the premiums will remain high for several years. Additionally, this may also affect future insurance policies with other providers, as the conviction will remain on your driving record for an extended period.

Long-Term Financial Impact

The financial consequences of a careless driving conviction can be long-lasting. With increased premiums and potential difficulty finding affordable coverage, you may end up paying thousands of dollars more for insurance over the years, significantly impacting your financial stability.

In summary, not fighting a careless driving charge in Ontario can lead to substantial increases in insurance premiums, loss of discounts, difficulty finding coverage, and long-term financial strain. It's essential to carefully consider your legal options and seek professional advice to mitigate the impact on your insurance and overall financial well-being.