Driver Licensing > Consequences of Unsafe Driving
Licence Suspension for other Criminal Code Convictions*
Driving a vehicle in Manitoba is a privilege. People convicted of certain offences under The Criminal Code of Canada will lose that privilege. Some examples of these offences are: dangerous driving, criminal negligence, flight from police, auto arson, auto vandalism, take vehicle without owner’s consent, auto theft, possession of property obtained by crime, and possess, sell or purchase master keys.
A conviction* for any these offences results in an automatic driver’s licence suspension or eligibility to obtain a licence. It also disqualifies you from operating an off-road vehicle. Anyone convicted of any such offence faces a driver’s licence suspension ranging from one year to life. Offenders under 16 years of age will have their suspension start on their 16th birthday.
* a discharge under the Criminal Code of Canada for certain driving related offences may be treated as a conviction under the Manitoba Highway Traffic Act.
Driving While Suspended - Consequences
Vehicles and off-road vehicles (ORVs) will be immediately impounded for a minimum of 30 days for driving while the person is suspended or prohibited from driving, or if the person is disqualified from operating an ORV.
The vehicle will be impounded even if it is owned or registered by someone other than the operator at the time of the offence. It is the owner’s responsibility to ensure that the user is not suspended, prohibited or disqualified. Vehicle owners will be responsible for the costs of towing and storage, plus an impoundment fee, which must be paid before a vehicle is released.
Additional consequences of driving while suspended can include:
- Imprisonment for up to five years and/or fines of up to $2000;
- A non-appealable licence prohibition under The Criminal Code which means that a work licence cannot be obtained;
- A lifetime driver’s licence suspension under The Highway Traffic Act; and,
- Additional driver licence premium
