Top Traffic Violation Lawyers Near You

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What Are Traffic Violations?

A traffic violation involves breaking local traffic laws on public streets or highways. Traffic violations are very common. Most of us get traffic tickets when we are in a hurry, driving in an unfamiliar place, or distracted on the road. Traffic violations can be considered civil violations but more serious traffic offenses are crimes.

Traffic violations can include moving violations and non-moving violations. Moving violations are for offenses while the car is in motion, like speeding or driving without headlights at night. Non-moving violations are for problems with the car itself or where it is parked, like parking in a red zone or having a broken tail light.

Common Traffic Violations

Most drivers will end up with at least one traffic violation over their lifetime. Newer drivers may be more likely to get a traffic ticket while they are learning to drive and learning how to avoid the eyes of law enforcement when behind the wheel. Common traffic tickets include:

• Speeding tickets
• Distracted driving
• Running a red light
• Rolling through a stop sign
• Unsafe lane change

Other vehicle violations can be charged as misdemeanors or felonies instead of just getting a traffic ticket. The penalties for criminal charges are more serious and can result in jail time, fines, loss of driving privileges, and other penalties. This is where legal services can be most important. Some common criminal traffic violations include:

• Reckless driving
• Drunk driving (DUI/DWI)

How Much Does a Traffic Violation Cost?

When you get a traffic ticket from a police officer, it will usually indicate the fine. However, other costs come with a traffic ticket. Too many tickets can mean a suspended license and higher insurance rates. If you can’t pay for insurance or get your license taken away, it could make it more difficult to get to work or school. Many people live in places where having a car is their only practical option for getting around.

How Many Points Will Raise My Insurance?

Every state has a different points system that may have an effect on your insurance premiums. Points are given to a driver after a moving violation. The number of points depends on the type of offense, with more serious violations having more points. If you get too many points on your license in a certain amount of time, you can have your driver’s license suspended.

Points can also raise your insurance rates. Your insurance company can see your driving record and if they see too many points on your record, they will view you as more of a risk of costing them money in an accident. The insurance company can increase your monthly premiums. Some insurance companies may even refuse coverage, leaving you without insurance.

Can a Traffic Violation Lawyer Help?

Many people decide to just pay the traffic violation fines in traffic court instead of hiring a criminal defense lawyer. Other people may go to their court date in municipal court with arguments they got off a website about how to get out of a traffic ticket. Legal representation can make a difference because they are familiar with traffic laws and how to defend their clients in court.

A traffic ticket attorney could end up saving you money in the long run by getting the fines cleared and helping you avoid higher insurance rates. This can mean a lot of money for people in high car insurance areas or drivers who already have a lot of points or vehicle offenses on their record.

When you meet with a defense attorney, your traffic ticket lawyer can review your case, help you understand your options, and represent you in your court appearance to get the ticket cleared from your driving record.