Clarkston Traffic Lawyer

Civil traffic tickets are always a headache, but traffic-related criminal charges can have severe ramifications. Keeping your driving record clear of these charges can be vital to avoiding insurance premium increases, high fines, and a permanent criminal record. Having an experienced Clarkston traffic lawyer on your side can be crucial to maintaining your clean driving record.

Every case is different, and you need legal representation that is tailored to your circumstances. A knowledgeable criminal defense lawyer may be able to examine your situation, present all options, and help you make decisions in your case. Many times it is possible for your lawyer to negotiate a reduction thereby saving you points on your driving record.

Individuals can receive traffic citations for various minor traffic offenses, such as speeding, failing to use a turn signal, and failing to stop at a stop sign. Although the response time varies by jurisdiction, individuals usually have between ten and 21 days in which to respond to the tickets.

If individuals admit guilt and pay the ticket, the violation adds points to their driving records. Accruing too many points within a specific timeframe can result in trouble with driver reexamination officials.

Some traffic offenses are so severe that they result in criminal charges. These offenses typically are a risk to the safety of drivers, passengers, and others on and near roadways. Although a conviction for any of these offenses may affect driving privileges, it also can result in a permanent criminal record and various penalties, including incarceration. According to Michigan law, traffic offenses can never be removed or “expunged” from your record.

While there are various criminal traffic offenses, individuals face some of these charges more often than others. Common types of criminal traffic charges include reckless driving, leaving the scene of an accident, and operating a vehicle while intoxicated (OWI or DUI). Since any criminal conviction can have harsh results, a traffic lawyer in Clarkston may be able to minimize the impact of these charges.

Individuals commit reckless driving when they operate vehicles on highways, frozen bodies of water, parking lots, and other places open to the public with a willful and wanton disregard for the safety of others. Reckless driving is a misdemeanor offense that results in up to 93 days in jail and a $500 fine. Your license will also be suspended for 90 days and no work permit or restricted driving is allowed during this suspension. Six points will also be added to your record. If reckless driving results in severe injuries or death to others, individuals can face felony charges with much more severe penalties.

A driving under the influence (DUI) or operating a vehicle while intoxicated (OWI) conviction can result in jail time, fines, and loss of driving privileges. Even a first-time DUI can result in a six-month license suspension. With multiple convictions, the penalties grow even harsher.

Individuals who leave the scene of an accident that has resulted in property damage or personal injuries can face misdemeanor charges under Michigan Compiled Statutes § 257.618. Leaving the scene of accidents involving only property damage can result in a misdemeanor offense carrying the potential for up to 90 days in jail, a $100 fine, and a license suspension.

When you are facing a civil traffic ticket or a criminal traffic offense, the consequences can be harsh, particularly when it comes to your ability to drive. Losing your license, even for a short period, can result in job loss and an inability to pay your bills. You may wish to consider contacting a Clarkston traffic lawyer for guidance in your case.

Punishments for the various traffic offenses can vary widely, but all are likely to have a lasting impact on your driver’s license. As these cases begin to go through the courts, individuals should not hesitate to get legal advice at once. Call today to get started building your defense.