Following Too Closely in Ontario: Questions Drivers Ask
General information about Ontario following-too-closely tickets. A collision does not answer every question about an allegation, so preserve the details and documents.
- General information only
- Official Ontario source linked
- Free case review available
GUIDE
Potential consequences
The Consequences That Can Change Your Next Step
A collision is not the whole analysis
The allegation, evidence and circumstances should be reviewed from the documents and facts of the individual matter.
Demerit points follow conviction
Ontario records demerit points after conviction for an applicable offence.
Insurance may be affected
A conviction can affect future insurance premiums or eligibility.
Record the details early
Record traffic, weather, road conditions, vehicle positions and the sequence of events while details are fresh.
Do not decide from the fine alone. A conviction can affect demerit points, your licence and insurance. Get the ticket reviewed before choosing how to respond.
Frequently asked questions
Clear Answers, Before You Decide
Does a rear-end collision automatically decide the ticket?
No. A collision does not answer every factual question about a charge. The allegation and available information should be reviewed.
When do demerit points apply for following too closely?
Demerit points are recorded after conviction for an applicable offence, not simply because a ticket was issued.
What should I keep?
Keep the ticket, collision documents, photographs and a written record of what you remember.
What should I do first?
Follow the response deadline and have the notice and circumstances reviewed before deciding how to respond.
Source: Ontario demerit-point information. This page is general information only and is not legal advice. The facts of each matter can change the available options. Last reviewed: September 2026.
Before deciding how to respond, what to do after receiving an Ontario traffic ticket and find the court listed on your ticket or summons.
Published by ParaCan Legal Services Professional Corporation. General Ontario information; contact ParaCan for a review of your own ticket or summons.
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Send ParaCan Legal Services a photo of your ticket or summons. We will review the document, explain the possible consequences and discuss the available options for your situation before you decide how to respond.