The traffic laws are strict in Virginia, leading to thousands of traffic tickets issued each year for offenses, like reckless driving, and speeding. Most of the time, people have to deal with minor offenses, but as Virginia takes its traffic laws very seriously, things escalate quickly, leaving you in serious trouble. The penalties for various offenses may range from demerits on driver’s licenses and heavy fines to increased insurance premiums and possible jail time.
To avoid facing those issues, it’s important to get in touch with seasoned attorneys in Virginia. Here’s more about why it makes sense to have a legal representative by your side after breaking the law.
Complicated Traffic Laws
For an average Joe, it can be hard to decipher those complicated traffic laws in Virginia, which is why you must connect with professional Virginia traffic violation defense attorneys. In Virginia, traffic violations are divided into two main categories – criminal traffic violations and traffic infractions.
Traffic infractions are essentially minor violations and usually refer to running a stop sign, speeding, not stopping at the red light, and taking improper turns. These infractions usually involve a fine or a few demerit points on your license. Just keep in mind that too many points may also get your license suspended.
Criminal traffic violations are serious offenses and deal with reckless driving, hit-and-run, DUI, and driving on a suspended license. These violations are tied with strict penalties, ranging from heavy fines of up to $2,500 to jail time for up to a year or more. The worst part is that these criminal violations become a permanent part of your record.
You should also bear in mind that overspeeding can put you in serious trouble in Virginia; in fact, driving 20 mph over the speed limit is categorized as “reckless driving” and is considered a class 1 criminal offense. This can be punished with jail time or hefty fines, which is why having an experienced defense attorney with you can save you from serious problems. However, a seasoned attorney can help you in many other ways. For instance:
- Reduced penalties: The first obvious reason to have an attorney is that they are better positioned to negotiate and get your fines reduced in case of a criminal offense. For minor offenses, they ensure that the court lets you off scot-free.
- License protected: When too many demerit points are accrued, or you’re charged with a criminal violation, you may end up losing your license. An attorney can fight your case and ensure this doesn’t happen.
- Clean criminal record: As traffic violations are prosecuted as a criminal offense in Virginia, you may end up having a permanent criminal record, which can impact security clearances, employment, and so on. An attorney works with you and does their best to keep convictions off your record.
Endnote
Traffic violation laws in Virginia have severe consequences for violating traffic laws. Don’t make the mistake of thinking you can navigate through the complex legal jargon all by yourself. Be sure to connect with an experienced attorney if you ever face criminal charges for traffic violations in Virginia.
