Impaired Driving Causing Bodily Harm — Non-Custodial Sentence

R. v. X.X. – 2025 – 3451

Allegation

X.X. was charged with impaired driving causing bodily harm, contrary to section 320.14(2) of the Criminal Code. The incident involved a pedestrian being struck while crossing at a marked crosswalk. It was alleged that X.X. was operating a vehicle while significantly impaired by alcohol when he failed to yield, hitting the pedestrian and causing life-altering injuries. The injuries were extensive—requiring lifetime, fulltime care.

The Crown’s case relied on blood alcohol reading taken after the incident, combined with physical evidence from the scene and witness accounts. 

Result

X.X. retained Sean Fagan’s office with one goal: accept responsibility but avoid jail. Given the strength of the evidence, the serious and permanent nature of the injuries, and the sentencing trends, this was an uphill battle. However, Sean Fagan was successful in securing a non-custodial outcome. No jail time was imposed. Avoiding incarceration in a case like this—where the facts were as grave as they come—was a significant win. The matter resolved without trial, and the result reflected the power of experienced, focused defence advocacy.