Springfield Traffic Lawyer

While traffic offenses may seem minor, this is not always the case. Some traffic offenses are criminal in nature and can lead to jail time, and multiple traffic violations can lead to the loss of driving privileges. Seeking the advice of a Springfield traffic lawyer when facing any type of traffic offenses may be wise.

Some traffic offenses even could rise to the level of the felonies, particularly if you have a history of traffic offenses or if a driving offense has resulted in injuries to others.

Enlisting the assistance of a hard-working criminal attorney may allow you to more effectively fight back against traffic-related charges and avoid some of the potentially negative consequences of a conviction.

Distinguishing Between Traffic Violations and Criminal Offenses

The lease serious traffic offenses are violations, which have no potential for jail time. While they are not criminal offenses, they are civil violations that can result only in the payment of a fine. A multitude of these violations within a limited period could have adverse effects on finances, due to increased insurance rates and high fines, as well as on the ability to drive.

Common examples of traffic violations include speeding tickets and failing to stop at stop signs or obey traffic signals. More serious traffic offenses are classified as criminal offenses. These driving-related offenses can be misdemeanors or felonies, depending on the circumstances. Consulting a Springfield traffic lawyer could be key to avoiding criminal penalties when facing such charges.

Perhaps one of the most commonly-charged criminal misdemeanor offenses related to driving is driving while intoxicated, or DWI. Pursuant to Va. Code § 18.2-266, it is unlawful to operate a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol content (BAC) of 0.08 percent or greater or while under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or both, that impairs the ability of drivers to safely operate the vehicle in a safe manner.

A first DWI offense is a Class 1 misdemeanor, which can result in up to one year in jail and a fine ranging from a mandatory minimum of $250 to a maximum of $2,500.

Driving-Related Felony Offenses

Driving offenses may become felonies when they result in serious bodily harm or death to others. As an example, while reckless driving is normally a Class 1 misdemeanor similar driving while intoxicated, it can be a Class 6 felony pursuant to Va. Code § 46.2-868 in some situation. This is the case if the drivers have no valid license and their reckless driving causes a fatal accident.

Felony convictions are far more severe than misdemeanor convictions, in general. A Class 6 felony can result in a prison sentence ranging from one to five years and a $2,500 fine. Anyone who is facing any type of felony charges may benefit greatly from the advice of a traffic attorney in Springfield.

Traffic Offenses and Accrual of Demerit Points

A conviction for most traffic offenses, including violations, misdemeanors, and felonies, will cause the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) to assess demerit points to individual driving records. DMV normally assesses demerit points in three, four, or six-point increments, depending on the severity of the traffic offense.

As an example, a speeding ticket for a few miles over the posted speed limit is likely to cost drivers three demerit points, but a DWI conviction can result in the assessment of six points.

The biggest drawbacks to the accrual of demerit points are the potential increases in motor vehicle insurance rates and the impact on driving privileges. Even one speeding ticket can result in increased insurance rates and the accrual of a certain number of points within a certain timeframe can result in the suspension of driving privileges.

Speak with a Springfield Traffic Attorney

A Springfield traffic lawyer could assist you in challenging traffic violations and helping you avoid the potentially negative repercussions of driving-related traffic offenses. While a single traffic violation may not be much cause for concern, repeated violations and more serious driving-related offenses can be quite costly and result in a permanent criminal record.

When you receive any type of traffic ticket or charges on a driving-related criminal offense, you may benefit from legal advice about your potential options. Getting legal representation may be essential to effectively exploring your options and resolving the charges against you.