Richmond Traffic Lawyer
In 2014, there were nearly 5,000 traffic accidents in the city of Richmond, of which about half resulted in injuries. Virginia’s traffic laws exist to protect its citizens from accidents like this, but sometimes it can feel like those laws are there just to inconvenience you. If you are facing any problems due to traffic violations, a knowledgeable Richmond traffic lawyer can help. Call an defense attorney in Richmond today to schedule a free consultation to discuss your case.
What are the Penalties for a Traffic Infraction?
As with most penalties, the more severe the traffic infraction, the more severe the punishment. You stand to face a lot more disruption in your life for a charge of reckless driving than for a simple speeding ticket. Under Section 46.2-113 of the Virginia Code, the standard punishment for basic a traffic infraction is a fine not to exceed $250. What most citizens need to be concerned with is the points system, which metes out much more serious penalties for cumulative infractions.
Virginia Point System
The Virginia DMV has a points system that they use to assign more troublesome penalties to repeated traffic violations. Every conviction for a traffic offense will add points to your record. For a more exhaustive list, you can go here, but you can receive:
- 3 points for speeding 1-9 mph over the limit
- 4 points for failure to obey traffic signals
- 6 points for speeding 20 over the speed limit and reckless driving
Could a Person Receive Enhanced Penalties for a Traffic Offense?
There are various enhanced penalties for accruing a large number of points over the course of 12 or 24 months, like having to go to a driver improvement program. However, the most inconvenient penalty is license suspension or revocation. If you get 18 points within a year or 24 points within 2 years, your license will be automatically suspended for 90 days. This can bring all kinds of problems into your life, like not being able to get to work. If you give in to the temptation to drive on a suspended license, you will likely get yourself in more trouble. According to Section 46.2-301 of the Virginia Code, not only will you face up to 12 months in prison and/or a fine of $2,500, but your suspension will be extended. A better option is to contact a Richmond traffic attorney who can assist you in asking for a restricted license.
Restricted License
A dedicated attorney practicing traffic in Richmond can petition the court to get you a restricted, instead of a suspended license. A restricted license is a license that allows you to drive in certain circumstances, for example:
- Driving your kids around
- Going to school
- Going to work
- Going to medical appointments
You will still face limitations and inconvenience, but this can be a much better option than running the risk of imprisonment and longer suspension times.
Contact a Richmond Traffic Attorney Today
Traffic infractions tend to be fairly minor, and are something that almost all of us have some experience with. However, it does not take long for infractions to pile up into something that can cause a good amount of inconvenience and disruption in your life. An experienced Richmond traffic lawyer can help fight those inconveniences and fines and can also work to restore your driving privileges. Call our firm today for a free consultation.
