California Traffic Offenses
The roadways in the Bay Area are often congested and jam-packed with people dashing between appointments and errands. This constant hustle can limit your attention to detail and result in various traffic offenses. In California, these can range from minor infractions to serious felonies. Whether you are facing an infraction, misdemeanor, or felony, you want to speak with an experienced defense lawyer to determine your rights and best options for a defense.
Some common California traffic offenses include:
- Speeding (Vehicle Code 22350)
You can be given a speeding ticket if you are driving faster than the posted speed limit, the legal speed limit for that type of area, or what is appropriate for the current conditions. The fine associated with this ticket depends on how much faster you are moving than the speed limit. However, if you are driving at more than 100 mph, you will face a harsher offense that leads to higher fines and a driver’s license suspension. - Driving on a Suspended License (Vehicle Code 14601)
If you are driving while your license has been suspended or revoked, you can be charged with a misdemeanor offense. This can be punished by a fine, time in jail, points on your license, and more. However, the exact consequences will depend on why your license was suspended in the first place.
- Driving Without a License (Vehicle Code 12500)
If you are found driving without a valid license, whether you never got one at all or let yours expire, then you will receive a ticket for an infraction or be charged with a misdemeanor. If you are convicted of a misdemeanor crime, you could have to deal with jail time, fines, points on your license, car impoundment, and probation. - Reckless Driving (Vehicle Code 23103)
If there is evidence you were driving with disregard for the safety of property and other people, then you will be charged with reckless driving. This offense is usually paired with other traffic violations, since it can encompass speeding, improper lane usage and changes, and tailgating. Reckless driving is typically a misdemeanor, punishable by up to 90 days in jail and a fine up to $1,000. However, if you caused anyone harm, you could be sentenced to up to six months in jail. - Hit and Run (Vehicle Code 20002)
Under California law, you are required to stop and remain at the scene of the accident if you are involved in an incident that likely resulted in property damage, injury, or death. If you either fail to stop, or you drive away before you exchange information, then you can be charged with a misdemeanor or felony hit and run. You will face a felony if the accident that caused someone injury or death, and you failed to stop. - Evading the Police (Vehicle Code 2800.2)
When police signal for you to pull over, you must stop. This offense encompasses speeding away, taking quick turns, and making any other evasive maneuvers. If you hurt someone while evading, you will be charged with a felony. - Street Racing (Penal Code 23109(a))
It is unlawful to race other vehicles on public roads. If you are caught drag racing, you will be charged with a misdemeanor, and you can expect to lose your license for at least six months.
For a free legal consultation with a Criminal Defense lawyer serving Oakland, call (510) 995-0000
California Driver’s License Points
Any time you are found guilty of a traffic offense in California, points are added to your driving record. Many violations like speeding or running a red light add one point. More serious violations like driving over 100 mph, reckless driving, driving on a suspended license, and a DUI result in two points. Most points stay in your license for three years, though DUI points stick around for 10 years.
When these points add up, they result in inconvenient consequences. The California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) will suspend your license for six months if you obtain:
- Four points within one year
- Six points in two years
- Eight points in three years
You may not even realize you have these points on your driving record until one day you receive a letter stating your license has been suspended. To try and correct this issue, you need to contact a lawyer immediately who can then request a DMV hearing right away.
Oakland Traffic Ticket Lawyer Near Me (510) 995-0000
Increased Insurance Premiums
When you pay a traffic ticket, the violation will appear on your driving record. Since most violations remain for three years, they will be counted against you when it is time for your insurance company to calculate your monthly insurance premiums. While your payment or rate will be based on several factors, one of the most significant elements will be your driving record. Ultimately, just one ticket could increase your monthly payment by roughly 20 percent. Such an increase spread over three years will result in paying considerably more for the same amount of auto insurance.
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Contact an Oakland Traffic Ticket Lawyer Today
Battling against a wrongfully issued traffic ticket or simply seeking a better outcome that saves you time, money, and hassle can seem like a straightforward process. After all, can’t you just explain to the judge that you didn’t see the stop sign or the speed limit suddenly went down to 25 miles per hour after you got off the freeway? Your concerns are reasonable, but without knowing how to frame your argument, cite the height requirements for stop signs, and local ordinances regarding speed limits, you will probably not win your case.
At Silver Law Firm, we understand you are searching for peace of mind. Attorney Elliot Silver has a proven track record of success and an unprecedented level of commitment to you and your case.
If you have been ticketed or arrested for a criminal traffic violation, contact Oakland traffic ticket defense lawyer Elliot Silver right away. Unfortunately, traffic offenses can be a huge inconvenience. If they are not handled properly, they could end up costing you more than you realize. To defend yourself, Contact Silver Law Firm online, or call (510) 995-0000 today. We want to help you keep your driving record clean and avoid the consequences of a ticket.
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