Traffic violations can have many negative consequences, including paying steep fines, points on your driving record, increased insurance premiums, and license suspension or revocation. Tickets can be especially problematic for those with driving jobs, such as commercial truck operators and taxi drivers. A license suspension could mean losing the ability to earn an income for a short or long-term period.
While paying a traffic citation before the court dates is the right choice in some cases, there are also times when attending the hearing to fight the violation is necessary, as a seasoned criminal defense attorney could further explain. Schedule to meet with a Tavares traffic lawyer for help fighting a ticket.
Driving With a Suspended or Revoked License
Motorists commonly continue to drive after losing their driver’s license permanently or temporarily. An arrest for this charge is serious and can mean facing severe penalties. Per Florida Statutes § 322.03, the first and second offenses are punishable by $500 in fines and serving up to 60 days in jail.
A third conviction for driving without a valid driver’s license could result in incarceration for a maximum of five years and fines of no more than $5,000. A capable Tavares traffic attorney could help build a strong defense to reach the best potential outcome in your case.
The Reckless Driving Statute
Reckless driving is a serious driving infraction that could result in license suspension, steep fines, and other penalties. According to Florida Statutes § 316.192, any motorist who operates a vehicle with abandoned disregard for the safety and wellbeing of other people or property is guilty of reckless driving. Further, an individual attempting to evade a traffic stop or arrest by fleeing from police officers is guilty of the offense.
The penalties for reckless vehicle operation include up to $500 in court fines and 90 days in jail for the first offense. In some situations, such as when the motorist causes others to suffer life-threatening injuries or death, a conviction could be a felony on their permanent record. More severe felony cases can mean spending up to five years in prison and paying fines of up to $5,000.
More Common Traffic Violations in Tavares
Other common traffic violations motorists in Tavares receive include the following:
- Speeding
- Making illegal U-Turns
- Failing to wear a seatbelt
- Failing to use a turn signal
- Careless vehicle operation
- Driving under the influence
- Failing to adhere to traffic safety laws, including stopping for a red light or stop sign
- Illegally passing a school bus or speeding in a school zone
Florida follows a point system for moving traffic violations, and the number of points per citation depends on the severity. If a driver receives 12 points or more within 12 months, the Department of Motor Vehicles DMV will suspend their driving privileges for 30 days.
Further, the DMV reports all moving violations to the individual’s auto insurance provider. A well-practiced traffic lawyer in Tavares could review the complete list of traffic offenses and the number of points a driver will receive on their driving record for each.
Call a Tavares Traffic Attorney Today
Drivers have the legal right to fight traffic tickets. While paying the fine ahead of time is the best choice in some cases, at other times, attending the hearing to dispute the offense is the right decision. An experienced Tavares traffic lawyer could review your case and help determine the best action in your unique situation. Fighting traffic citations could result in a conviction for a lesser charge or the court dropping the violation altogether. Call today to review your options after receiving a ticket for a traffic violation.
