Tampa Traffic Offense Lawyer
Driving a car might seem like a right, but it’s not; it’s a privilege. And with that privilege comes numerous responsibilities, including that of driving safely and within the confines of Florida’s traffic laws. When a traffic offense is committed, or numerous traffic offenses are committed, the penalties can be serious, ranging from large fines to increases in insurance rates to even jail time. If you are facing traffic charges in Florida, call our experienced Tampa traffic offense lawyers for a consultation about how we can represent you.
Traffic Offenses in Florida
There are numerous traffic violations that are penalized under Florida law. Consider a few of the following, keeping in mind that the list is not inclusive:
- Leaving the scene of an accident;
- Unlawful speeding resulting in an accident;
- Unlawful speeding;
- Child restraint violation;
- Moving violation resulting in an accident; and
- Passing a stopped school bus.
The above violations will result in points assessed against your driver’s license. In addition to having points levied against you, you may also face a civil penalty of up to $1,000, and be asked to participate in traffic school. If you accumulate too many points within a given time period, your driver’s license may be suspended or revoked.
As a note,careless driving in Florida, which is defined as the failure to operate a vehicle in a careful and prudent manner, is considered a moving violation in the state. Reckless driving, on the other hand, which is defined as driving with a willful or wanton disregard for safety, is a criminal offense in the state and can result in imprisonment of up to 90 days for a first offense and a fine of up to $500.
Driving under the influence of alcohol is also a major traffic offense in the state.
Your Options When Facing Traffic Charges
If you are charged with a traffic offense and do not believe that you are guilty of the offense, you have the right to plead not guilty to the charge and appear in court for a hearing. If you decide to do this, it is strongly recommended that you seek the counsel of an experienced traffic offenses lawyer.
Traffic Offenses Can Be Serious
While you may think that you don’t need an attorney to represent you if you are facing minor traffic offense charges, for example, if you’ve been given a speeding ticket, keep in mind that some offenses are more serious than others and that points add up over time. If you are convicted of a traffic offense, you will likely be asked to pay a fine, have points added to your driving record, experience a hike in your insurance rate, be asked to participate in a drivers’ education course, and could even face jail time or license suspension depending upon the circumstances.
Our Tampa Traffic Offense Lawyers Can Help
Before you simply pay your fine and admit your guilt, we recommend calling our knowledgeable Florida traffic offenses lawyers for a consultation. In many cases, simply pleading guilty to a crime is not within your best interests. Let our Tampa traffic offenses lawyers assess your case and help you determine the best course of action for you.
Reach us today by calling our law firm directly or sending us a message. We work to serve you.