The State of Florida uses a point-based system to determine the seriousness of traffic violations. Each violation carries a certain number of points that will go against a driver’s record if they are convicted of the traffic offense. Thus, while a traffic ticket may not seem to be a major concern if it is your first offense, for some motorists, even a minor violation can carry significant consequences, including a lengthy license suspension, hefty fines, and even jail time in some very serious cases. As a Brevard County traffic ticket lawyer, I have an extensive history of successfully disputing all types of traffic tickets on behalf of my clients. I understand the frustration that an unjustified traffic ticket can cause, and I take every step possible to keep points off your record so that you can keep your license.
When a driver receives a traffic citation, the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles will add points to that driver’s record if they are convicted of the traffic offense. There are many types of traffic violations, and each type carries a specific number of points. For example, below are a few of the more common traffic offenses, as well as the number of points that each offense carries:
Once a driver is convicted of a traffic offense, the points will remain on their record for five years. If a driver accrues too many points, their license can be suspended. For example, if a driver accumulates 12 points within 12 months, their license will be suspended for 30 days. If a driver gets 18 points within 18 months, their license will be suspended for six months. A license suspension can seriously interfere with an individual’s ability to live their life, and a dedicated traffic ticket attorney in Brevard County will work hard to reduce the possibility of a suspension.
If a driver’s license is suspended, they will not be able to drive for any reason. Once the suspension period is over, they will need to apply to have their license reinstated and pay the accompanying reinstatement fee. However, some drivers who have had their licenses suspended may be able to qualify for hardship licenses. A driver who qualifies for a hardship license can drive on a limited basis but still must take the required Advanced Driver Improvement course and pay license reinstatement fees.
If you have been issued a traffic ticket, you should not simply pay the ticket without first considering your options. By paying a traffic ticket, you acknowledge responsibility and will be found to have committed the offense. This will result in a conviction on your driving record and points being added to your license. While signing up for traffic school may sound like a good alternative, this also has potential risks, especially for people who do not qualify or do not end up completing the course.
A better option is to consult with a dedicated Brevard County traffic ticket attorney who is familiar with the court system. An experienced lawyer may be able to prove why you did not commit the offense. Even in cases in which the evidence is not favorable, a skilled attorney can often negotiate a ticket down to a lesser offense, preventing points from being added to your record.
If you have recently been issued a traffic ticket in Brevard County, and are afraid about what it will mean for the future of your driving privileges, give me a call to discuss your situation. I represent clients who are dealing with all types of traffic tickets. For more than 14 years, I have been fighting to help my clients keep their licenses. I understand the importance of being able to drive, whether it is to make a living, to take your children to school, or to live your life as you want to live it. I handle cases throughout Brevard County, including in Indialantic, Palm Shores, Cocoa, Cocoa Beach, Melbourne, Merritt Island, Cape Canaveral, Rockledge, Palm Bay, Satellite Beach, Titusville, Mims, West Melbourne, Indian Harbour Beach, Melbourne Village, Melbourne Beach, and Grant-Valkaria. To learn more, and to schedule a free consultation with a traffic ticket lawyer in Brevard County, give me a call at 321-254-3455 or 321-576-8398 today.