Toronto Dangerous Driving Defence Lawyers
Dangerous Driving
Dangerous driving, formally described in the Criminal Code as dangerous operation, concerns the manner of driving in light of all the circumstances. A collision, traffic violation or serious outcome does not, by itself, establish criminal responsibility.
At Shikhman Barristers, the evidence is carefully examined against the legal test the Crown is required to prove.
Dangerous Driving and Careless Driving Are Different
Careless driving is a provincial offence. Dangerous operation is a criminal charge. The legal tests, procedures and potential consequences are different, even where both arise from the same event.
Reconstructing What Occurred
Video, witness accounts, collision reports, vehicle data, road design, weather, visibility and sight lines may all affect the analysis. The surrounding circumstances matter because the result of a collision does not explain how or why it occurred.
Available 24/7 for Your Call
Legal issues do not always happen during business hours. Shikhman Barristers is available 24/7 to take your call, answer your initial questions, and discuss your next steps.
Allegations Involving Bodily Harm or Death
Where bodily harm or death is alleged, causation and the reliability of technical evidence require close examination. The seriousness of the result does not remove the Crown’s obligation to prove every element of the offence.
Statements and Police Evidence
The defence may review statements, officer observations, video and reconstruction evidence, together with how that information was obtained and whether it accurately reflects the event.
Does an Accident Automatically Amount to Dangerous Driving?
No. The Crown must prove dangerous operation according to the legal standard and the circumstances established by the evidence.
Can Dashcam or Surveillance Footage Be Important?
Yes. Video may assist the court, but its completeness, authenticity, perspective and surrounding context must be considered.
When to Contact a Lawyer
Contact a criminal defence lawyer as soon as an arrest occurs or a surrender is being considered. Early advice allows time to identify possible sureties, gather relevant information and prepare the proposed release plan.
SPEAK WITH OUR FIRM
Request a Confidential Consultation
If you are under investigation, have been arrested or are facing a criminal charge, bail hearing, trial or appeal, contact Shikhman Barristers to discuss your circumstances and understand the next step. If you have been detained or arrested, exercise your right to remain silent and ask to speak with a lawyer before answering questions about the allegation.
416-365-3151
Toll-free: 1-888-508-9178
Available 24/7
Email: info@crimlawcanada.com
*Submitting this form does not create a lawyer-client relationship. Please do not include confidential or time-sensitive information. Shikhman Barristers must confirm that it is able to act before a lawyer-client relationship is established.