What is dangerous driving, and how does it impact your car insurance rate?

A split-second decision behind the wheel can carry consequences that last for years. Dangerous driving charges might lead to fines or demerit points, licence suspensions and potentially even criminal convictions.

At the very least, they can lead to significantly higher insurance premiums.

As a responsible driver, it’s vital to understand what qualifies as dangerous driving and how it can affect both your record and your wallet.

What is dangerous driving?

Under Canada’s Criminal Code, a person commits dangerous driving if they operate a vehicle in a way that is considered dangerous to the public, or causes bodily harm or death, with consideration of the circumstances involved.

That sets it apart from many routine traffic violations, which fall under provincial highway traffic legislation. A criminal conviction can result in a stained permanent record, driving prohibitions and, in serious cases, jail time.

Some examples of dangerous driving can include:

• Excessive speeding, particularly well above posted limits
• Street racing
• Impaired driving involving alcohol or drugs
• Aggressive or reckless lane changes
• Running red lights at high speed
• Criminal negligence behind the wheel
• Distracted driving that creates clear danger

What are the charges and penalties for dangerous driving?

Because dangerous driving is a Criminal Code offence, the penalties can be severe.

In general, a dangerous driving conviction can result in:

• Significant fines
• A criminal record
• A court-ordered driving prohibition
• Provincial licence suspensions
• Vehicle impoundment
• House arrest
• Jail time

Where the offence causes bodily harm or death, the penalties increase substantially and can include jail time or house arrest.

For example, in February 2026 a truck driver was sentenced to two years house arrest for dangerous driving after he ran a stop sign in Manitoba, causing a fatal crash.

Although criminal law applies federally, provinces also regulate their own traffic laws and can impose additional administrative penalties. That means drivers may face roadside suspensions, escalating fines and impoundment under provincial legislation on top of any criminal charges.

In November 2025, the Government of Ontario announced a suite of tougher penalties in response to a tragic dangerous driving incident. The measures included stronger roadside enforcement tools, longer suspensions and increased consequences for serious and repeat offenders, reinforcing that high-risk driving carries heavy consequences at both the criminal and provincial levels.

How does dangerous driving affect your car insurance rate?

Dangerous driving can have a long-lasting impact on your auto insurance costs. Here are some of the ways it can affect your premiums:

At-fault accidents

If dangerous driving leads to an at-fault accident and you file a claim for repairs, your insurer will likely raise your premium at renewal. At-fault claims signal higher future risk.

Tickets and convictions

Serious traffic convictions show up on your driving record. Insurers review that record when calculating your rate, and major convictions typically result in significant premium increases.

Multiple infractions within a short period can make coverage even more expensive.

Licence suspensions

A licence suspension indicates elevated risk. Once your licence is reinstated, insurers may charge higher premiums or apply stricter underwriting criteria.

Limited insurance options

Drivers considered high risk may find that standard insurers decline to offer coverage. In those cases, drivers may need coverage through the Facility Association, the insurer of last resort. Policies through Facility are often substantially more expensive.

Related: What is facility car insurance for high-risk drivers? | LowestRates.ca

How to save on your premiums and stay safe on the road

If you’ve had a conviction, time and clean driving are key to improving your insurance profile.

Keep your record clean

Traffic tickets typically remain on your driving record for three to six years, depending on the offence and the insurer. Avoiding additional violations gives insurers confidence that the behaviour was isolated.

Consider usage-based insurance

Some insurers offer usage-based insurance programs that monitor driving habits such as speed, braking and mileage. Responsible driving may also help you qualify for discounts, while risky behaviour over time can lead to higher costs.

Choose a safer vehicle

The type of vehicle you drive can also affect your rate. High-performance vehicles are often associated with higher risk, and therefore higher premiums. Vehicles equipped with advanced safety features, such as automatic emergency braking and lane-assist technology, may qualify for lower rates.

Read more: This is how the car you drive affects your insurance rate | LowestRates.ca

Dangerous driving carries serious legal consequences and can affect your insurance premiums for a long time. Criminal charges, licence suspensions and at-fault claims all contribute to higher costs and fewer coverage options.

Understanding how these penalties work and how insurers assess risk can help, but ultimately maintaining a clean driving record remains one of the most reliable ways to protect both your safety and your premium.