TRAFFIC OFFENSE Services

SPEEDING

When a driver exceeds the posted speed limit or drives too fast for road conditions, it’s classified as a minor misdemeanor but can be upgraded to a first-degree misdemeanor if it takes place in a construction zone or another aggravated situation. Penalties range up to $500, license points (usually two for most violations), with increased penalties for higher speeds or if speeding is in a construction zone or school zone.

Reckless Driving

This involves operating a vehicle in a manner that shows a disregard for the safety of others, such as weaving in and out of traffic or running red lights. Usually a first-degree misdemeanor, penalties range up to $1,000, with possible jail time, license suspension, and point on the driver’s’ record.

Running a Red Light or Stop Sign

Failing to stop for a red traffic signal or a stop sign is typically a minor misdemeanor, though it may escalate depending on the circumstances (such as causing an accident). Penalties include a fine of up to $150, 2 points on the driver’s record, and increased penalties if the violation results in an accident.

Failure to Yield

When a driver does not give the right of way when required by traffic laws, potentially leading to a collision, he or she can be charged with this

minor misdemeanor. Penalties include fines up to $150 and 2 points on the driver’s record.

Driving Without a Valid License

Operating a vehicle without a valid driver’s license, either due to expired, revoked or suspended license status, can result in this first-degree misdemeanor. It can escalate to a felony if there are multiple prior offenses. Penalties include fines up to $1,000, jail time up to 6 months (for misdemeanor charges), and possible longer license suspension or revocation.

Driving with a Suspended or Revoked LICENSE

Driving after your license has been suspended or revoked due to prior traffic violations or legal reasons (such as unpaid tickets or DUI convictions), can result in this first-degree misdemeanor, which can be upgraded to a felony if the person has multiple violations, or the suspension is related to a serious offense. Penalties can include fines up to $1,000, possible jail time of up to 6 months, and extended license suspension.

Failure to Provide Proof of Insurance

Not having valid proof of auto insurance when requested by law enforcement during a traffic stop is a minor misdemeanor offense that can result in penalties of fines up to $25 and possible license suspension if not rectified.

Improper Lane Change

Changing lanes without using proper signals, or when unsafe to do so, creating a danger to other drivers is typically a minor misdemeanor, with penalties of up to $100 fine and 2 points on the driver’s record.

Hit and Run

Leaving the scene of an accident without stopping to exchange information or provide assistance when required by law can range from a first-degree misdemeanor to a third-degree felony, depending on the severity of the accident. Penalties can include fines up to $5,000 (for felony charges), possible jail time (up to 12 months for misdemeanors, more for felonies), license suspension, and restitution for damages or injuries caused.

Commercial Driving Violations

Commercial drivers (CDL holders) are held to higher standards on the road. Violations such as speeding, traffic light violations, and other infractions can have severe consequences for their ability to continue working as a commercial driver. The level of charges are similar to non-commercial drivers but with added potential consequences due to the CDL status. Penalties can include loss of CDL for major violations (such as DUI or serious traffic accidents), accumulation of points on a CDL can lead to suspension or disqualification, and fines, suspension of commercial privileges, and even career-ending consequences.

As a lawyer who primarily practices in traffic violations, Attorney Olivia Myers assists CDL holders in minimizing the impact of traffic tickets. She works tirelessly to reduce or eliminate points that could lead to suspension or revocation of a driver’s CDL, negotiates reduced penalties, helps clients avoid losing their jobs or facing the additional costs of a suspended CDL, and represents clients in court to fight charges or request diversion programs that can prevent points from appearing on their record.