Traffic Tickets Attorney In Rye Brook, NY

What Happens When a Minor Traffic Violation Becomes a Big Problem?

Ignoring, forgetting to pay, or refusing to appear in court after receiving a traffic ticket is never recommended. Not paying a minor fine or appearing in court to challenge the ticket can lead to major implications down the line, including:

• In addition to the initial fine and fees, interest and penalties can also be applied.
• Sending your unpaid fines to a collection agency can damage your credit rating.
• A judge can issue you a bench warrant for failing to appear in court.

If you're facing a traffic ticket, you can't just ignore it – getting help from a New York traffic attorney is the best way to protect your rights and preserve your driving privileges.

Frequently Committed Traffic Violations

Police can issue citations for minor traffic offenses, known as traffic infractions or traffic violations. Typically, a traffic infraction is defined as an act or omission prohibited by law but not a crime. Common examples of infractions include:

• Speeding
• Failing to stop or yield
• Failing to signal
• Operating a vehicle without proper lighting, and
• Seat belt violations.

Common Criminal Traffic Offenses

Violations of traffic laws that are punishable with jail time are considered criminal offenses. Criminal traffic violations can be categorized as either misdemeanors or felonies. Driving offenses that are viewed as criminal acts include:

• Operating a motor vehicle while intoxicated by alcohol or drugs (commonly referred to as "DUI" or "DWI")
• Operating a vehicle with a suspended or revoked license
• Reckless driving
• Fleeing the scene of an accident
• Vehicular homicide

Misdemeanor Or Felony Traffic Offense

The criminal classification for traffic offenses differs depending on the jurisdiction. Generally, minor infractions remain as such but may be elevated to more serious crimes if certain conditions are met.

For instance, speeding can be considered a misdemeanor charge instead of a traffic infraction if the driver significantly surpasses the speed limit. Moreover, in some cases, driving offenses regarded as misdemeanors can be considered felonies in special circumstances.

Many states, including New York, elevate a misdemeanor traffic offense to a felony if:

• The driver is a repeat offender, or
• The offense involves property damage, injuries, or death.
• For instance, a first-time DUI offense is usually considered a misdemeanor but can become a felony if there are more offenses or if someone is injured.

Traffic Ticket Penalties

In many parts of New York, a misdemeanor – not as serious as a felony, but more so than an infraction – can result in up to one year of incarceration. Felony convictions are typically sentenced to more than one year in state prison, as these are the most serious criminal offenses.

Aside from jail time, other consequences of breaking traffic laws may include:

• Penalties, fines, court costs, and fees
• Doing volunteer work as community service
• Having your license suspended or revoked
• Vehicle immobilization, also known as impoundment
• Points are added to the driver's record, which makes your insurance rate go up
• Being put on probation
• Parole (supervised release from prison)

Contact A Traffic Violation Lawyer To Fight Your Traffic Ticket

Michael Kramer, Attorney at Law, offers legal assistance by reducing fines, challenging license suspensions, or dismissing traffic violations. The firm's ultimate goal is to help you get the best possible outcome.

If you're facing a traffic violation, having an experienced Traffic Ticket Lawyer In Rye Brook, NY, can provide you with a solid defense. Because of this, the odds are more likely to be in your favor so that you can move forward. For a free consultation, call our office at (914) 709-7161.