Speeding vs. Stunting

Speeding is a charge under the Nova Scotia Motor Vehicle Act, in which a summary offence ticket is issued to the driver of the vehicle.

For a first offence, in 2021, a speeding fine is $237.50 for driving 1 km/hr -15 km/h over the posted speed limit, and two points will be added to your driving record. The fine for driving 16 km/hr - 30 km/hr over the posted speed limit is $295, and three points will be added to your driving record. The fine for driving 31 km/hr - 49 km/hr over the posted speed limit is $410, and four points will be added to your driving record. For speeding tickets between 16 km/hr - 30 km/hr and 31 km/hr - 49 km/hr, a driver's license is suspended for seven days.

Stunting is also a charge under the Nova Scotia Motor Vehicle Act in which a summary offence ticket is issued to the driver of the vehicle. When a person is driving 50 kms or more over the posted speed limit, it is considered stunting. The first offence of stunting is punishable by a fine, in 2021, of $2,422.50, six points being added to your driving record and loss of driver’s license for seven days. As the vehicle is immediately seized and impounded for seven days, there is also the cost of paying to have the vehicle released from impound.

Points remain on your driving record for two years before they are removed. If a person holding a learner's license accumulates four points on their driving record, their license will be suspended for six months. If a newly licensed driver accumulates six points on their driving record, their license will be suspended for six months. If a fully licensed driver accumulates ten points on their driving record, their license will be suspended for six months.

If you are charged with a summary offence, you can plead not guilty and a trial date will be scheduled, you can plead guilty and the appropriate punishment will be applied, or you can do nothing and you will automatically be convicted. It is best to speak with a lawyer to determine your best option.

Please note this is not legal advice for your specific situation.