Traffic rule?

Question

If a Canadian happens to be get a taffic ticket for vilolating traffic rule while driving in US, will it add up to demerit point on license? Does the violator has right to resolve the issue back in Canada/

Answer 1

Traffic rules commited outside Canada does not accumulate to the violations in Canada because the latter has no jurisdiction and could not even know if a violation by one while outside his country. Minor offenses are not usually reported to the country of origin of a person.

Answer 2

Sorry, but I must disagree with the first two answers.

First, whatever jurisdiction the violation occurred in, is the only jurisdiction that can deal with it. You most certainly can write to the court office (address should be on the ticket), plead guilty, and ask to have the fine reduced. Or, you can contact a lawyer where it happened and see what he can do for you. Depending on the local laws he might be able to act on your behalf without you there, but you would have to appear if it went to trial.

In regards to demerity points, most states and provinces in North American have reciprocal agreements where points are accumulated on your driver's licence regardless of where a conviction is recorded. If you are from Ontario and get a ticket in NJ, or from Washington and get a ticket in British Columbia, you will propably find demerit points put on you home driver's licence.

Answer 3

The violator does not have a right to resolve the issue in Canada, it must be resolved in the US jurisdiction it was issued, and it will not affect your Canadian driving status.

If you fail to appear in court, however, you may have a warrant issued for your arrest (non-extraditable from Canada.)