Paying for these types of tickets will definitely hurt, so it pays to know how to deal with them.
Not all traffic tickets are created equal. There are some tickets that can create a minor nuisance, costing you a few dollars or a few hours of your time. Then there are the big ones. The ones that can cost you thousands of dollars, points on your license, or even your freedom. Paying for these types of tickets will definitely hurt, so it pays to know how to deal with them.
Racing
Also called exhibition of speed, unauthorized speed contest, or drag racing, this kind of ticket carries serious penalties. In most cases, you will face a fine of a minimum of $500 if convicted. You can also be charged with a misdemeanor, jail time, or a license suspension. Any number of actions can be considered racing. Peeling out, revving the engine, and skidding are all considered racing and can be used to convict you in court.
DUI/DWI
According to Dmvedu.org, driving while under the influence or driving while intoxicated convictions always carry a fine. The penalty varies from state to state, and depends on the circumstances of the case and the defendant's record. For a first offense, the jail sentence ranges from 30 days to six months in jail. In most states, fines for driving while under the influence ranges from $500 to $2,000. In addition, you can expect an increase in your insurance rates if you are convicted on these charges.
Driving on a suspended license
If your license has been suspended and you are caught driving anyway, there are steep fines and penalties. In some states, like New York, you can be charged with a felony for this offense. In most states, however, driving while on a suspended license is punishable by fines.
As with any case, the actual penalties depend on the state and the circumstances of the case. Some judges will charge the defendant with a misdemeanor, others will impose jail sentences for up to 30 days. Fines can be as little as $200 or as high as $1,000, depending on the reason for the suspension and the circumstances of the case.
Refusing a breathalyzer test
Refusing to take a breathalyzer test is a serious offense, and can carry steep penalties. If an officer believes that you are under the influence and asks you to submit to a breathalyzer to test your blood alcohol level, you can face fines and jail time if you refuse. Driving is considered a privilege, not a right, and states consider that drivers have consented to breathalyzer testing in exchange for the driving privilege. If you refuse the test, expect to pay up to $500 in fines and suffer a driver's license suspension of up to seven months in most states.
Passing a school bus
Passing a school bus is a serious offense, and a ticket that will definitely hurt your wallet. Children have been hurt or killed by motorists that passed stopped buses, so states take this offense seriously. If you see a school bus with the stop sign extended and the lights flashing, expect to be pulled over if you ignore them. Fines for passing a stopped school bus include fines of up to $1,000. In addition, you can face a driver's license suspension of up to six months.
If you have been arrested or charged with any of these crimes, you can expect high fines, possible driver's license suspension, and even jail time. Additionally, being convicted of these offenses can mean an increase in your car insurance rates. You need an attorney who can fight for you and help you reduce the charge. Hire a team of experienced attorneys who know the law and can argue for your freedom. Most offer a free case evaluation.
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