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Following too Closely

In the realm of Ontario’s Highway Traffic Act, “Following Too Closely” is an offence outlined under section 158. This violation takes place when a motorist does not maintain a safe distance between their vehicle and the vehicle they are following. The Act stipulates that a driver should keep a reasonable and prudent distance, taking into consideration speed, road conditions, and traffic flow. Failing to do so increases the risk of rear-end collisions and jeopardizes road safety.

Key Factors Considered in Following Too Closely Charges

When evaluating the appropriate distance to maintain, consider the following variables:

  • Speed of Both Vehicles: The speed at which you and the front vehicle are travelling affects the required stopping distance. The faster you go, the longer it will take to bring your vehicle to a complete stop.
  • Road Conditions: Environmental factors like wet, icy, or uneven roads demand more cautious driving and greater following distances.
  • Traffic Flow: In congested traffic where frequent stops or slow-downs are the norm, maintaining a larger gap is essential to prevent collisions.

Following Too Closely Penalties in Ontario

A follow-too-closely ticket in Ontario is not a matter to be taken lightly. Being convicted of this offence has severe repercussions:

  • Fine: The fine for following too closely varies between $60 and $500, depending on the gravity of the offence.
  • Demerit Points: Conviction leads to 4 demerit points added to your driving record, which can have long-term implications.
  • Insurance Rates: Insurance companies often hike premiums after a conviction, making it an expensive long-term burden.
Fine Range Demerit Points Insurance Impact
$60 – $500 4 Points Likely to Increase
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Follow Too Closely for Commercial Drivers

In Ontario, commercial drivers are often subject to stricter rules and regulations compared to non-commercial drivers. One such rule specifies that commercial drivers are required to maintain a distance of at least 60 meters from the vehicle they are following. This regulation is aimed at promoting road safety by accounting for the larger size and weight of commercial vehicles, which inherently have longer stopping distances.

This rule serves multiple safety objectives:

  1. Improved Reaction Time: Commercial vehicles need more time to come to a full stop due to their larger mass.
  2. Enhanced Visibility: Keeping a 60-meter distance ensures that commercial drivers have a better field of vision, making it easier to anticipate the actions of other drivers.
  3. Lower Risk of Accidents: A greater following distance considerably lowers the probability of rear-end collisions, which are more catastrophic when involving commercial vehicles due to their size and weight.

Commercial drivers should pay extra attention to this offence. Not only are the standard fines and demerit points for following too closely applicable, but commercial drivers might also face additional penalties, such as:

  • License Suspension: Accumulating too many demerit points could lead to a temporary suspension of your commercial driver’s license.
  • Employment Risks: Employers in the transport sector frequently assess driving records as part of their hiring or ongoing employment evaluations. A driving too closely ticket may severely hinder job prospects or even result in job loss.

Note on Vehicle Types and Commercial Consequences

Different types of commercial vehicles may experience diverse penalties. For instance, the penalties may be more stringent if you operate a vehicle carrying hazardous material. Therefore, it’s crucial to consider the type of commercial vehicle you drive when addressing a follow-too-closely ticket.

According to our paralegal: A following too closely conviction can have consequences beyond the initial fine. Four demerit points and a potential insurance increase can make this charge more costly over time, so it is important to consider your options before simply paying the ticket.

We advise: Commercial drivers should take a following too closely charge particularly seriously because the consequences can extend beyond fines and demerit points. A conviction may affect a professional driving record and, depending on the circumstances, create additional employment or licensing concerns.

Defending Against a Following Too Closely Ticket in Ontario

If you receive a following too closely ticket, you should consider hiring Traffic Paralegal Services to represent you. With comprehensive knowledge of Ontario’s Highway Traffic Act, our firm offers the following services to help you:

  1. Case Assessment: We initiate a comprehensive review of your ticket, considering the police officer’s notes, possible video evidence, and any available witness statements.
  2. Legal Consultation: Our paralegals will provide a complete breakdown of the potential repercussions, both immediate and long-term.
  3. Court Representation: Our team is well-equipped to represent you in court, presenting a cogent argument aimed at eliminating or at least minimizing the penalties you face.
  4. Negotiation: When appropriate, we will negotiate with the prosecution for a reduced charge to lessen the impact on your driving record and insurance premiums.

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Raushaan Fatima
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Volodymyr was able to get my ticket dropped! This team handled everything for me and I am very pleased with the outcome! Definitely recommend. Thank you so much :)
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Joshua Nortey
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Highly recommend Volodymyr. Leanne was very polite and helpful!! The BEST and the BEST. You can never go wrong with them. All charges withdrawn!!!! Great service.
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Rafay Abdul
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A++
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Very good service
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Traffic Paralegal Services were able to get my ticket completely dropped. I had an initial call with Volodymyr where he walked me through their approach and potential outcomes. Highly recommended!
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Mr. Menok and the team at TPS were incredibly professional, courteous and friendly. They did a fantastic job. I highly recommend their services if you find yourself in need.
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Sukhman Nagra
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I honestly can’t thank Traffic Paralegal Services enough. Going into this, I genuinely thought my case was impossible to beat. OPP even came to my house and still gave me a ticket, even though they couldn’t actually prove who was driving the car. At that point, I was pretty much convinced I was screwed. From the start, they made everything feel way less stressful. They explained things in a way that actually made sense and handled everything for me so I didn’t have to keep worrying about it. What really impressed me was how detailed they were. They didn’t just treat it like a regular case — they actually looked into everything and found the gaps in the evidence. In the end, they got the whole thing dropped, which I honestly didn’t think was possible. If you’re dealing with a ticket and feel like there’s no way out, don’t just accept it. These guys know what they’re doing and actually fight for you. Highly recommend them.
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TOOK A BAD SITUATION AND TURNED IT INTO A SMILE !!! TY TY TY
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I had the pleasure of using the team’s expertise on some unpleasant tickets and they were successful in getting the charges dropped. I am so grateful and highly recommend them! Colleen from Toronto ON
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FAQ

It's an offence under section 158 of the Highway Traffic Act for not maintaining a safe distance from the vehicle ahead.

Four demerit points are added to your driving record.

Fines can range from $60 to $500.

Yes, your insurance premiums may increase.

Commercial drivers must maintain a minimum 60-meter distance from the vehicle they are following.

We offer case assessment, legal consultation, court representation, and negotiation services tailored to Ontario's traffic laws.

Our focused practice on Provincial Offences Act and Highway Traffic Act violations equips us to defend your case effectively.

Our Licensed Paralegals

Within the confines of the legal playing field, we are dedicated to protecting our clients against prosecution and conviction. Get to know our team below and see how we can help you.

Volodymyr Menok

Volodymyr Menok

President – Licensed Paralegal
  • Licensed Paralegal in good standing with the Law Society Of Ontario
  • Graduated with high honours from Sheridan College
  • Speaks Ukrainian, Russian and Polish
  • Joined TPS in 2014
  • License Number: P10414
Michael Walt

Michael Walt

Founder
  • 33 years Toronto Police officer
  • Experience – Major Crimes Unit – District Drug Squad
  • Drug/Undercover Investigator
  • Criminal Investigation Branch
  • Uniform Patrol
  • Former Traffic Officer
  • Commissioner of Oaths
  • Founded TPS in 2008
Leanne Hollick

Leanne Hollick

Licensed Paralegal
  • Licensed and in good standing with the Law Society Of Ontario
  • Graduated from Sheridan College with High Honors
  • Completed Placement hours with the Crown Attorney’s Office
  • Commissioner of Oaths
  • Joined TPS in 2018
  • License Number: P11741
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