By Callum 
Driving in Surrey, like anywhere else in British Columbia, comes with responsibilities and legal obligations. While most drivers take care to follow the rules of the road, mistakes or lapses in judgment can happen. Unfortunately, some driving offences carry serious legal and financial consequences, and in many cases, they can impact your driving record, insurance premiums, and even your freedom.
Understanding the most common driving offences in Surrey—and the penalties that come with them—can help you avoid costly mistakes and make informed decisions if you are ever charged with one.
1. Impaired Driving (DUI)
One of the most serious and widely known driving offences in Surrey is impaired driving, also known as driving under the influence (DUI). This refers to operating a vehicle while your ability to do so is affected by alcohol or drugs.
Penalties:
- Immediate Roadside Prohibition (IRP): Drivers can face a 24-hour prohibition, 90-day suspension, or longer depending on circumstances.
- Vehicle Impoundment: Up to 30 days.
- Fines and Fees: Including towing, storage, and license reinstatement costs.
- Criminal Record: In cases of criminal DUI charges, a conviction can result in fines, probation, or jail time.
Repeat offences are treated more harshly and may include mandatory ignition interlock devices or extended suspensions.
2. Distracted Driving
Distracted driving has become one of the most common offences in Surrey due to the widespread use of mobile devices. Even glancing at your phone while driving is considered an offence.
Penalties:
- Fines: $368 for a first offence.
- Penalty Points: Four driver penalty points on your driving record.
- Repeat Offences: Subsequent offences within 12 months can result in fines exceeding $2,000 once insurance premiums are factored in.
British Columbia has some of the strictest distracted driving laws in Canada, and enforcement is active in Surrey.
3. Excessive Speeding
Speeding in general is a common ticket, but “excessive speeding” in Surrey carries particularly heavy penalties. This is defined as driving more than 40 km/h over the posted speed limit.
Penalties:
- Fines: Between $368 and $483 depending on speed.
- Vehicle Impoundment: Minimum of 7 days for a first offence, with longer impoundments for repeat offences.
- Insurance Premiums: Higher risk classification leading to significant cost increases.
Excessive speeding is not only expensive but also puts other drivers and pedestrians at risk, which is why it’s treated seriously.
4. Driving Without Insurance
Driving without valid insurance is another offence with severe consequences. Even if your lapse was unintentional, such as forgetting to renew, the law is strict.
Penalties:
- Fine: $598 minimum.
- Liability: In the event of an accident, the uninsured driver can be held personally responsible for damages, which may amount to hundreds of thousands of dollars.
5. Driving While Prohibited or Suspended
If your license has been suspended or you are prohibited from driving due to a previous offence, getting behind the wheel is a serious criminal matter.
Penalties:
- Fine: Up to $5,000.
- Jail Time: Up to 6 months for a first offence.
- Repeat Offences: Higher fines, longer jail time, and extended driving prohibitions.
This offence demonstrates a disregard for court orders, which is why the courts treat it so severely.
6. Hit and Run
Failing to remain at the scene of an accident, whether or not you were at fault, is a criminal offence. Even if the accident seems minor, you are legally required to stop, exchange information, and provide assistance if needed.
Penalties:
- Fines: Up to $2,000.
- License Suspension: Possible prohibition from driving.
- Criminal Record: A conviction can carry up to 6 months in jail.
Hit-and-run offences carry social stigma as well as legal penalties, as they suggest a lack of responsibility.
7. Careless or Dangerous Driving
Careless driving refers to operating a vehicle without due care and attention, while dangerous driving involves a reckless disregard for the safety of others. Both are treated seriously depending on the circumstances.
Penalties:
- Careless Driving Fine: $368 plus 6 demerit points.
- Dangerous Driving: Considered a criminal offence and may lead to fines, jail time, or both.
Dangerous driving convictions also leave you with a criminal record, which can affect employment and travel.
8. Failure to Obey Traffic Signs or Signals
Running a red light, failing to stop at a stop sign, or ignoring other traffic signals may seem minor but can lead to collisions and significant penalties.
Penalties:
- Fines: Typically $167 to $368 depending on the violation.
- Driver Penalty Points: Added to your driving record, which can impact insurance rates.
These offences may not be as severe as impaired driving or excessive speeding, but repeat violations can accumulate and result in serious consequences.
9. Stunt Driving
Street racing or engaging in stunts on public roads is considered extremely dangerous and is heavily penalized.
Penalties:
- Immediate Vehicle Impoundment: Minimum of 7 days.
- Fines: $368 to $483.
- Driving Record: Multiple demerit points added.
Repeat offences may result in longer impoundments and increased fines, along with criminal charges depending on the severity.
10. Failing to Wear a Seatbelt or Ensure Passengers Are Restrained
Though not as severe as some offences, failing to wear a seatbelt or allowing passengers to ride without restraints is still a ticketable offence.
Penalties:
- Fine: $167 per violation.
- Insurance Impact: Demerit points can influence premiums.
Why Legal Representation Matters
Driving offences in Surrey can range from minor tickets to serious criminal charges, but even seemingly small infractions can add up, affecting your driving record and finances. More serious offences, such as impaired or dangerous driving, can change the course of your life.
If you’ve been charged with a driving offence, it’s important to seek legal advice. An experienced lawyer can review the circumstances, challenge evidence, and help minimize penalties. Legal support is especially critical for offences that may result in criminal records, lengthy prohibitions, or jail time.
For trusted representation, you can visit www.surreycriminallawyer.com, where experienced defence lawyers provide guidance tailored to driving offences in British Columbia.
Final Thoughts
Driving offences in Surrey are taken seriously, with penalties ranging from fines and demerit points to jail sentences and license suspensions. By understanding the most common offences—such as impaired driving, distracted driving, excessive speeding, and dangerous driving—you can better appreciate the importance of safe and responsible driving.
Mistakes happen, but being informed helps you avoid them. And if you do face charges, knowing your rights and working with a skilled defence lawyer can make all the difference in protecting your future.