Dangerous Driving  Defence Lawyer Toronto

Dangerous driving allegations are among the most serious driving-related offences under the Criminal Code. Unlike many traffic offences, a conviction for dangerous driving can result in a criminal record, driving prohibitions, significant fines, and imprisonment. Where bodily harm or death is alleged, the penalties become substantially more severe.

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At Michael Coristine Law, we provide strategic defence for individuals facing serious driving-related criminal charges, including:

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• Dangerous Operation (Criminal Code s. 320.13)

• Failure to Stop After an Accident (Criminal Code s. 320.16)

• Flight from a Peace Officer (Criminal Code s. 320.17)

• Dangerous Driving Causing Bodily Harm

• Dangerous Driving Causing Death

• Related Criminal Driving Offences

 

Dangerous driving charges often arise following motor vehicle collisions, high-speed driving allegations, police pursuits, racing allegations, or situations where police believe a driver's conduct represented a marked departure from the standard of care expected of a reasonable driver.

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These investigations frequently involve accident reconstruction experts, surveillance footage, witness statements, vehicle data, police observations, and forensic evidence. The prosecution's case may depend on complex technical evidence that requires careful analysis and strategic cross-examination.

 

Many individuals charged with dangerous driving have no prior criminal record and are surprised to learn they face criminal prosecution rather than a simple traffic ticket. However, the Crown often pursues these allegations aggressively, particularly where injuries, fatalities, or allegations of fleeing the police are involved.

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Successfully defending dangerous driving charges requires a detailed examination of the circumstances surrounding the incident. Factors such as road conditions, vehicle mechanics, driver actions, witness reliability, police investigative procedures, and expert evidence can all play a critical role in the defence.

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As a former Senior Crown Attorney, Michael Coristine has extensive experience handling serious driving-related prosecutions. He understands how the Crown develops these cases and uses that knowledge to identify weaknesses in the evidence, challenge expert opinions where appropriate, and develop strategic defences tailored to each client's circumstances.

 

If you have been charged with dangerous operation, failure to stop after an accident, flight from a peace officer, or any serious driving-related criminal offence, contact Michael Coristine Law immediately. The consequences can be severe, and early intervention by experienced counsel can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case.