Some driving habits feel second nature, but a few can quietly break the law in Ontario. A quick glance at your phone, cruising in the left lane, or rolling through a crosswalk might seem harmless, but they can lead to fines and higher insurance rates. Watch out for these common myths next time you hit the road.
Common Driving Mistakes with Real Consequences
If I’m Going the Speed Limit, I Can Stay in the Left Lane.
Not exactly. In Ontario, the left lane on multi-lane roads is meant for passing. If you’re being overtaken by faster traffic, and you’re not actively passing someone, you’re expected to move right. Simply driving at the speed limit doesn’t exempt you. Under the Highway Traffic Act, failing to yield the left lane when you’re obstructing traffic can lead to a fine of up to $1,000. Police often enforce this on 400-series highways, especially using unmarked vehicles. Staying in the left lane unnecessarily can cause dangerous passing on the right and traffic build-up. If a vehicle behind you is catching up, move over, even if you think you’re going fast enough.
I Can Check My Phone At a Red Light.
Wrong. In Ontario, it’s illegal to use, hold, or even touch your phone, even when stopped at a red light. Distracted driving laws apply whenever you’re in control of a vehicle, not just while it’s moving. First-time penalties include a $615 fine, three demerit points, and a three-day licence suspension. This also applies to using GPS without a hands-free setup. Police often patrol intersections and stop-and-go traffic, specifically looking for this type of activity. Distracted driving is one of the top causes of crashes in the province.
It’s Fine to Show a Picture of My Licence If I Forget My Wallet.
Not true. You need the actual plastic card. If pulled over, and you don’t have it with you, you’ll face an $85 fine, even if you’re fully licensed. Officers can’t accept phone photos or digital scans. And during collisions, not having an ID can delay everything from police reports to insurance claims. If you’re in another city or renting a car, this can become a major hassle. Keep a spare copy of your licence in a secure part of your vehicle, but only use it as a backup. It doesn’t replace the legal requirement to carry it.
My Plate Renews Automatically Now, So I Don’t Have to Think About It.
It depends. Ontario eliminated renewal fees and stickers for most passenger vehicles, and many renewals now happen automatically. But this only applies if your insurance is valid and you have no unpaid tolls, tickets, or fines. If any of those conditions aren’t met, your plate won’t renew, even if you don’t get a warning. Vehicles like commercial trucks, buses, snowmobiles, and trailers still require manual plate renewals. Driving with expired plates can lead to fines ranging from $100 to $1,000, or up to $2,500 for commercial vehicles. Log in to ServiceOntario every few months to confirm your plate status. Don’t assume you’re in the clear just because you didn’t get a notice.
If the Pedestrian’s Out of My Lane, I Can Keep Driving.
Nope. Ontario law says you must wait until the pedestrian fully crosses the entire road at crossovers and school crossings, not just your lane. Rolling forward early or passing a stopped car can earn you a $1,000 fine and three demerit points. Some cities use school bus dash cams and intersection surveillance to catch violations. Even if you’re second in line, you must stay stopped if the car ahead is yielding to a pedestrian.
It’s OK to Pass On the Right if Traffic is Slow.
Only under certain conditions. Passing on the right is legal if the driver ahead is turning left and the shoulder is paved. That’s it. Otherwise, it’s considered off-road driving. This is risky on urban streets where cyclists, parked cars, or driveways can create sudden obstacles. A careless shoulder pass can lead to collisions, tickets, and liability in a crash. When traffic’s heavy, resist the urge to jump the line.
Driving Slowly is Safer Than Speeding.
Only to a point. Ontario fines drivers between $150 and $1,000 for going too slowly and disrupting traffic. Creeping along in clear conditions creates unexpected braking and erratic lane changes behind you. It’s especially risky on highways, where vehicles are moving at high speeds. If police see you as a road hazard, they can and will stop you, even if you’re trying to be cautious. Use your mirrors. If a line of cars is forming behind you and you’re below the limit, speed up or pull over when it’s safe.
I Can Pass a Snow Plow as Long as I’m Careful.
Absolutely not. If plows are working in formation on roads with 80 km/h or higher speed limits, passing is illegal unless your lane is completely clear of all blades and attachments. These trucks push out snow and ice, creating sudden ridges and whiteout conditions. Drivers who pass them risk collisions and a fine up to $1,000. Many plows are also equipped with dash cams that can help enforce the rule. Stay several car lengths behind and wait. Plows move slowly but help clear the safest path ahead.
How These Driving Mistakes Affect Your Auto Insurance
Getting a ticket can follow you for years through your insurance. Traffic violations like failing to yield at a crosswalk, improper passing, or driving without your license go on your driving record. Insurance companies can review your record every time you renew or switch policies. Even one minor infraction can signal higher risk and lead to increased premiums. Repeat offences or serious violations like careless driving can move you into a higher risk category, where rates are significantly more expensive.
Finding the right insurance provider can make a big difference in what you pay. Look for one with clear pricing, good service, and flexible coverage that fits your needs. Some offer rewards for safe driving, while others raise rates quickly after small violations. Make sure they explain how tickets or claims impact your premium. Ask how fast they handle claims, if they have accident forgiveness, and if you can manage your policy online. Comparing a few options helps you avoid overpaying and gives you more control over your coverage.
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