The Villages Criminal Traffic Violation Attorney
Providing Strong 24/7 Defense for Criminal Traffic Offenses in The Villages, FL
Do You Need Legal Defense for a Criminal Traffic Violation?
Although traffic violations are common and most people think they are no big deal, repeat offenses or serious incidents can have life-altering consequences like long prison sentences or permanent loss of driving privileges. Jaimie Washo and John Spivey are a team of The Villages traffic violation attorneys that have been successfully defending clients in Lake County, Florida for 45+ years.
We can examine the details of your case such as eyewitness testimony, traffic cam footage, and police reports to develop a strong defense and achieve the best possible legal outcome for your case. Our criminal defense firm is conveniently located next to the Lake and Sumter County Jails, so we are always nearby and available to serve you.
Moving vs. Non-Moving Criminal Traffic Offenses
Moving and non-moving traffic violations represent two distinct categories of traffic offenses in Florida with unique circumstances and consequences. Moving violations occur when a vehicle is in operation and violates laws designed to ensure the safe movement of traffic. These offenses include speeding, running red lights, DUI, and reckless driving, often resulting in points on the offender’s driver’s license, fines, and higher insurance premiums.
Non-moving violations are unrelated to the vehicle’s motion and include offenses like parking illegally, having expired registration tags, or failing vehicle inspections. Although generally less severe than moving violations, non-moving infractions can still lead to fines and administrative penalties that affect the driver’s legal standing and financial situation.
Providing Strong Legal Representation & Support in The Villages, Florida
Florida Traffic Laws & Penalties
Florida’s traffic laws are designed to promote safety and order on all state roads and highways. They cover a wide range of regulations covering everything from speed limits and seat belt usage to DUI enforcement and pedestrian rights. Key provisions include strict DUI laws, with significant penalties for offenders to deter impaired driving, and comprehensive seat belt laws to reduce fatalities and injuries in accidents.
Florida also enforces laws aimed at protecting vulnerable road users like bicyclists and pedestrians with rules about right-of-way and safe passing distances. The state has also adopted measures to combat distracted driving including a ban on texting while driving. Adherence to these laws is critical for maintaining safety and minimizing accidents, and violations can result in fines, points on your driver’s license, and other penalties depending on the severity of the infraction.
Misdemeanor vs. Felony Traffic Offenses in Florida
In the legal system, traffic offenses are categorized into misdemeanors or felonies depending on the severity and potential harm they cause. Misdemeanor traffic offenses, such as minor speeding violations or running a stop sign, are less severe and typically result in fines, points on a driver’s license, or short-term imprisonment. Felony traffic offenses include more serious violations like DUI with injury, vehicular homicide, or repeated DUI offenses.
These crimes carry harsher penalties including significant prison time, hefty fines, and long-term license suspension. The transition from a misdemeanor to a felony offense usually hinges on factors like the presence of aggravating circumstances, prior convictions, and the degree of risk or harm to public safety.
Types of Criminal Traffic Violations in Florida
Florida roads are governed by a comprehensive set of traffic laws, addressing everything from minor speeding offenses to serious violations like DUIs. This guide explores the common types of traffic violations in the state, highlighting the importance of adherence to these laws for maintaining safety and avoiding legal consequences on Florida’s highways and byways.
Driving With a Suspended License
Driving with a suspended license occurs when an individual operates a vehicle while their driving privileges have been temporarily or indefinitely revoked or suspended by legal authorities.
This can happen for various reasons, including accumulation of traffic violations, DUI convictions, failure to pay fines or child support, and other legal issues. Operating a vehicle with a suspended license is illegal and can lead to additional fines, extended suspension periods, and possible imprisonment.
Driving Without a Valid License
Driving without a valid license refers to operating a vehicle without ever having obtained a driver’s license, with an expired license, or after a license has been suspended or revoked. This violation indicates non-compliance with the legal requirement to hold a valid, current driver’s license while driving. Penalties for this offense can include fines, vehicle impoundment, and potential jail time, depending on the jurisdiction and the circumstances surrounding the violation.
Driving With No Insurance
In Florida, drivers are legally mandated to carry a certain level of insurance to cover any damages or injuries in the event of an accident. Driving without the required insurance can result in serious penalties like expensive legal fines, temporary or permanent license suspension, vehicle impoundment, and the requirement to carry an SR-22 (certificate of financial responsibility).
Fleeing the Scene
Fleeing the scene, also commonly referred to as a hit-and-run, occurs when a driver involved in an accident resulting in property damage, injury, or death leaves the site without providing their contact information, assisting injured parties, or waiting for law enforcement to arrive. The penalties for fleeing the scene can vary depending on the severity of the accident and the resulting harm but may include fines, points on the offender’s license, suspension or revocation of driving privileges, and incarceration.
Driving Under the Influence
A DUI (Driving Under the Influence) offense occurs when an individual operates a vehicle while impaired by alcohol or drugs beyond legal limits. This offense is considered a threat to public safety and carries harsh penalties including fines, license suspension, mandatory education programs, and incarceration to deter impaired driving and promote road safety.
If you or someone you know has been arrested for driving under the influence, contact our office to schedule a consultation with a Tavares DUI attorney, Bushnell DUI attorney, or The Villages DUI attorney.
Vehicular Homicide
Vehicular homicide is charged when reckless or negligent driving results in the death of another person. It’s a grave offense, reflecting the severity of causing a fatality through irresponsible vehicle operation. Convictions can lead to significant prison sentences, fines, and the long-term suspension or revocation of driving privileges.
Find a Traffic Violation Attorney in The Villages, FL
Trying to deal with law enforcement or the legal system yourself can be difficult and only make your situation worse. We can work together to assess your case and provide strong defense to achieve the best possible legal outcome.
If you or someone you know has been arrested or charged for a criminal traffic offense, schedule a consultation with a The Villages criminal traffic violation attorney, Bushnell criminal traffic violation attorney, or Tavares criminal traffic violation attorney.
