Major Traffic Violations in New Jersey
Traffic violations in New Jersey can earn you a ticket, fine, or other consequences. Nonetheless, not all transgressions are considered equal in the eyes of the law. Major traffic violations that place the lives of others in danger can hold the possibility of jail time, community service, suspension of driving privileges, or more. You could also get enough points on your license to cost you higher car insurance premiums and hefty fines.
In comparison, the consequences of minor traffic violations can be a mere slap on the wrist. You should consult a New Jersey Criminal Defense Lawyer right away if you are charged with committing major traffic violations.
Major Traffic Violation Cases in New Jersey
Any conduct that places other people’s lives in jeopardy or disregards their safety is considered a major traffic violation. When proven in court, the consequences for these offenses can escalate quickly. Typical severe traffic violations in New Jersey include:
- Driving while intoxicated
- Over speeding: driving 15 mph or more above the speed limit
- Illegal racing
- Reckless Driving
- Tailgating
- Driving a commercial vehicle without a CDL
- Improperly passing a school bus
- Leaving or fleeing the scene of an accident
Some of these violations will cause you to get 5 points or more on your driving history. An offense that results in personal injury can add 8 points to your record, leaving you vulnerable to losing your driving rights in the state.
Overall, your punishment depends on the seriousness of your violations. However, there is a high chance that your license and driving privileges could be suspended should you be found guilty.
Traffic Violation Cases Handled by the Law Office of Matthew V. Portella, LLC
Mr. Portella handles a variety of major traffic offense cases, including:
- Careless or Reckless Driving: The difference between careless and reckless driving in New Jersey lies in the driver’s intent. Careless driving charges are brought against a driver who didn’t intend to break the law but did. Reckless driving, on the other hand, is driving with an apparent disregard for the law. Drivers found guilty of reckless driving can receive a fine between $50 to $200, 60 days in jail, or both.
- Speeding: Driving 15 mph over the speed limit is a serious traffic offense. Your punishment depends on how many mph over the limit you were driving and where you were driving. If you were speeding in a construction zone, school crossing, or through a crosswalk, your fine could increase drastically.
- DUI/DWI: These offenses have very severe repercussions in New Jersey. A first DUI or DWI offense will cost you your license until you install the costly Ignition Interlock Device. You also face a possible loss of your driving privileges, fines, surcharges, and possible jail time if you are convicted.
- Driving with a Suspended License: The penalties for this offense could include a fine between $500 to $1000 and an additional period of license suspension of up to 6 months, and, if you have multiple convictions, there is mandatory jail time.
Why You Need an Attorney to Fight Major Traffic Violations in New Jersey
An experienced criminal defense lawyer can eliminate or downgrade major traffic violations. We could argue that law enforcement:
· Conducted an improper, unconstitutional, or poor investigation
· Misidentified witnesses
· Failed to document proof that could favor you
· Wrongly depicted the traffic violation.
Our office could also challenge the evidence provided by the prosecution. This includes casting doubt on the effectiveness of the radar gun used or the accuracy of surveillance camera footage.
If the charge or charges were too serious to be dismissed, we could get your charges reduced with an agreement to attend a driver improvement program.
Contact Our New Jersey Criminal Defense Attorney for Help
If you have been arrested or charged with a major traffic violation, it is important that you contact the Law Office of Matthew V. Portella, LLC. With over 25 years of experience dealing with major traffic violations in New Jersey, Matthew V. Portella can offer legal advice and an aggressive defense for your case.
Please feel free to call us on 856-245-5911 or contact us online for your initial consultation.