Traffic Violations in Homewood

Traffic violations happen every day, and police may not always see them occur. But when law enforcement is watching, it can be costly for those involved. Hefty fines and other penalties are commonly handed down to lawbreakers. If you were fined because of a traffic violation, a Homewood traffic lawyer can help protect your rights and defend your case within the legal system. It is important to an experienced criminal attorney that your case pursues the most beneficial possible outcome.

Common Traffic Violations

There are a variety of traffic violations Homewood residents may face. Each carries their own penalties and consequences. A few common violations are:

• Drinking and driving offenses
• Driving without a license or a suspended license
• Operating a vehicle without insurance and/or registration
• Leaving the scene of an accident
• Unlawful vehicle modifications
• Speeding
• Reckless driving
• Illegal U turn
• Mechanical violations

Understanding an Officer’s Abilities When Issuing a Ticket

A 2016 state law created in 2016 allows law enforcement to issue a ticket to drivers they believe caused a car accident. A police officer can issue tickets based on their personal investigation and assessment of the incident. If the police officer believes the cause of a crash was due to a driver’s failure to stop at a red light, they can issue a ticket to the driver even if the officer did not witness the offense at the time of the crash.

Historically, a police officer could only issue tickets at the scene of a car wreck to persons operating a vehicle under the influence, leaving the scene, or driving without insurance. A Homewood traffic lawyer can help drivers understand how this new law affects their potential case.

Homewood Point System and Driving Records

If convicted of a traffic offense, points are added to a person’s driving record. An accumulation of driving points may result in higher auto insurance payments and may lead to suspension or revocation of a driver’s license. According to the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency, the below violations will yield points on a driver’s license:

• Two points for speeding 1 to 25 MPH over the speed limit
• Five points for speeding 26 or more MPH over the speed limit
• Six points for reckless driving or reckless endangerment when operating a motor vehicle
• Five points for passing a stopped school bus
• Three points for disregarding a traffic control device such as a stop sign, traffic light, etc.

Commercial Drivers and Traffic Violations

If a person possesses a commercial driver’s license (CDL), penalties will be more severe. In certain instances, a violation may result in a permanent driver’s license revocation. If a commercial driver operates a commercial vehicle under the influence of alcohol, refuses to submit to a breath test, or has a blood alcohol content (BAC) of 0.04% or higher, their driver’s license will be suspended. A Homewood traffic lawyer is well-versed in state traffic laws. We can create strategies to help you avoid penalties, negotiate less severe options, or even dismiss your traffic charge altogether.

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