Traffic Violations in Shelby County

Driving a vehicle is a common form of transportation. Many people use cars to get around and carry out everyday tasks. However, some traffic violations may jeopardize a person’s ability to operate a vehicle. When someone incurs a traffic law violation, a Shelby county traffic lawyer could help advocate on their behalf in court. Traffic violations range from moving violations to more serious offenses, such as DUIs.

No matter what kind of traffic violation a person faces, they may want to consult an aggressive defense attorney. A traffic violation could increase car insurance rates and someone who has incurred a second traffic violation may receive a more punitive punishment.

In Alabama, there is a wide variety of traffic laws that the state requires drivers to comply with when operating on the roadway. Some of these laws direct drivers to refrain from certain behavior which may include:

• Driving while impaired
• Speeding
• Speeding in a work zone
• Passing in the left lane
• Failing to wear a seat belt
• Passing a stopped school bus
• Texting while driving
• Failing to move over for emergency vehicles

The penalties for violating these laws range from points being added to a driving record, fines and even jail time, depending on the nature of the offense. If a driver receives 12 – 24 points within a two-year period that may lead to the driver’s license being suspended for a period of 60 days up to one year according to the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency.

Reckless driving includes the act of driving too fast, but also includes any action that shows a willful disregard for the safety of others according to Alabama Code Section 32-5A-190. If convicted, a first offense carries with it a potential penalty of five to 90 days of imprisonment and a fine of $25 to $500. A second offense carries a heavier penalty, plus the potential of a suspended license.

Additionally, reckless driving is considered a criminal offense. If a person is convicted of such a charge or pleads guilty to such a charge, they may create a permanent and public criminal record. Consult a seasoned Shelby County traffic lawyer who can review the incident.

In the Alabama Code Section 32-5A-350, it is a crime to write, send or read text-based communications while operating a vehicle. A person who is discovered to have used text-based communication while driving could be subject to fines which vary based on the number of infractions.

When a school bus signals that it is stopping, other drivers may not pass the bus, according to Alabama Cord Section 32-5A-154. The driver must typically not start driving again until the bus first moves. The penalty for a first-time conviction may include a fine of $150 to $300.

Traffic violations may seem to be insignificant offenses, but depending on the nature of the violation and the amount of prior issues, the penalties could strongly and negatively impact a person’s livelihood. Carefully consider different legal strategies before going to court, and contact a knowledgeable Shelby County traffic lawyer who understands court proceedings regarding traffic violations. Call today.