A 27-year-old man is facing serious charges after an alleged high-speed test drive on the streets of Barrie, Ontario. According to the Barrie Police Service, the incident occurred on January 16, 2026, when an officer observed a vehicle travelling at a dangerous speed.
Excessive Speed During Vehicle Test
The core of the charge stems from the vehicle's recorded speed. Police allege the man was operating the vehicle at a rate 46 kilometres per hour over the posted speed limit. In Ontario, driving 40 km/h or more over the limit in a zone where the maximum is less than 80 km/h automatically qualifies as "stunt driving" under the Highway Traffic Act.
Legal Repercussions for Stunt Driving
The consequences for a stunt driving conviction are severe and immediate. Upon being stopped, the driver's licence is suspended and the vehicle is impounded for 14 days. If convicted, the individual faces a minimum fine of $2,000 and a further licence suspension of up to two years for a first offence. The charge also brings a significant impact on auto insurance premiums.
This case highlights that the circumstances of driving—whether it's a personal vehicle, a rental, or, as in this instance, a test drive—do not exempt a driver from the law. The 27-year-old from Barrie is scheduled to answer to the charge in court at a later date.
A Reminder on Road Safety
The Barrie Police Service uses this incident to remind all motorists of their responsibility to obey speed limits and drive safely, regardless of the situation. Stunt driving laws are designed to protect all road users from the heightened risks associated with excessive speed, which dramatically increases stopping distances and the severity of collisions.
