Ontario Traffic Ticket Update — Just in Time for the Labour Day Long Weekend
With the Labour Day weekend approaching, traffic in Ontario is set to ramp up—and so is the risk of getting a ticket. Here's what you need to know to stay safe, avoid fines, and know your rights if you’re pulled over or issued a ticket.
What’s Happening on Ontario Roads
Huge enforcement push expected: Last Labour Day weekend, the OPP issued over 7,300 traffic charges, with nearly 4,900 for speeding alone, plus dozens more for seat belt violations, stunt driving, and impaired driving.(Insurance Hotline)
Long weekend traffic hotspots: Expect congestion on major routes such as the 400-series highways and routes heading out of the GTA. Fridays and Sundays are especially heavy.(ThinkInsure)
Labour Day Driving Tips
Avoid peak times: Try to leave either before the Friday rush or wait until after the evening slowdown—this can shave off serious time.
Alternate routes help: Country or scenic roads may be slower per kilometre but often faster overall during traffic jams.(ThinkInsure)
Stay alert: Keep your focus on the road—minimize phone use, never eat while driving, and keep both hands on the wheel.(Wheels)
Safety first: Always buckle up, expect school bus and pedestrian traffic, and slow down in inclement weather.(Insurance Hotline, ThinkInsure)
Watch for emergency responders: If you spot flashing police, ambulance, or tow truck lights, you must slow down and move over.
Ontario Traffic Ticket Basics
Set fines depend on your speed: Most speeding tickets start at about $3 per km/h over the limit. More speed = higher fine.(ThinkInsure)
Automated Speed Enforcement (ASE): If your ticket is from a school-zone camera issued on or after February 3, 2025, it goes through the new Administrative Penalties Program—a faster, easier system similar to how parking tickets are handled.(regionofwaterloo.ca)
General traffic tickets still follow the Provincial Offences process—you can pay, dispute, or request an early resolution or trial using the options on your ticket, through the Ontario government site.(durham.ca)
Your Labour Day Checklist
Action Why It Matters Plan now Leaving early or late avoids heavy congestion Drive defensively You’ll likely hit delays regardless—stay patient Know your ticket options ASE tickets and standard offences use different processes Move over when you see lights It’s the law and keeps everyone safe
What To Do If You Get a Ticket
Identify the type: Is it ASE (new school-zone system) or a traditional traffic offence? This determines where you can pay or contest it.
Dispute or resolve your ticket: Ontario offers early resolution meetings or you can request a trial—just follow instructions on your ticket. https://www.ventilegal.com
Watch out for penalties: Unpaid fines can result in licence suspensions, collections actions, or worse.(durham.ca, mississauga.ca)
Final Word
This Labour Day, hit the road with awareness and preparation. Slow down, leave early or late, and steer clear of actions that could cost you—like speeding or distracted driving. And if you do end up with a ticket, VENTI Legal is here to help, whether you want help disputing it, managing ADRs, or understanding your next move.
Want help drafting a follow-up letter or navigating the traffic court process? I’ve got you covered—just say the word.
VENTI Legal Services
5000 Yonge St Suite 1901
North York, ON M2N 7E9
www.ventilegal.com | (416) 549-8012
