Virginia Speeding Ticket Traffic

Understanding Virginia and Maryland Traffic Tickets: Common Offenses and Penalties

In Virginia and Maryland, it is common to receive traffic tickets, but it can be costly and frustrating. While the penalties for traffic violations vary depending upon the severity of the offense and location that takes place. So it is necessary to understand the main impacts of traffic violations to prevent any unwanted expenses or hassles. The Law Offices Of SRIS.P.C. is one of the leading law firms in Virginia and has a team of experienced Traffic Attorneys to deal with all traffic offense-related cases. In this blog, we can see some of the most common penalties and offenses of traffic tickets and how to fight the traffic ticket in these two states. 

Traffic Offenses and Penalties in Virginia and Maryland

1.Speeding– It is Virginia’s and Maryland’s most common traffic violation. You may receive a ticket and points on your license if you are caught driving above the fixed speed limit. The actual penalties are based on the speed limit you were driving on the road. For example, if you have crossed the speed limit above 20mph in Virginia, then the fine range is up to $250 and 5 points on your license. In Maryland, you may get a fine of $80, if caught crossing over the speed limit for driving 1-9 miles. Also, it can lead to paying a fine of up to $350 for driving above 30 mph or more.

2.Reckless driving– This is another regular traffic violation in Maryland and Virginia. Reckless driving includes any kind of activity that endangers the property or life of others, such as driving or racing under the influence of alcohol or drugs, weaving in and out of traffic, and crossing at a high rate of speed in a way that offends the traffic laws. If you are convicted of reckless driving then the penalties can include a suspension of your driving license, fines up to $2500, and can sentence to prison for up to one year. In Maryland, the fine is up to $6 for a mile and it is calculated over the speed limit crossed in the state for reckless driving.

3.DUI/DWI– In Virginia, it is a criminal misdemeanor to drive while intoxicated(DWI) or under the influence of drugs(DUI). If you are caught with a blood alcohol content (BAC) level of 0.08% or more than that you could face serious issues like imprisonment, points in your license, and high fines up to $2500. In Maryland, the actual blood alcohol content limit is the same as in Virginia and the fine can range from $1000, a suspension of your driving license, and even a sentence of one year in prison. For legal assistance with your traffic violation offense, schedule a meeting with the Virginia Traffic Attorney.

4.Failure to respond to traffic signals– In both the states, if you disobey the traffic signals like stop signs, running red lights, and other road traffic signals, you would be required to pay a fine of up to $350, a rise in your insurance rates, and three points on your driving license. In addition, if you intend to have an accident as a result of crossing these violations, then you could be held liable for any loss.

5..Driving without a valid license– In Virginia, it is a traffic violation to drive without a driving license, it may end up in paying fines up to $500, paying points, and a sentence of up to 10 days in jail. For this case, the Maryland state can imprison up to 60 days in jail and can suspend your license to drive.

6.Texting while driving– In Maryland, texting when you are driving has become a new offense and if you are caught in this situation, you would be required to pay a fine of up to $500 and points marked as one in your license.

How to fight a Traffic Ticket

If you have been convicted of a traffic ticket case and follow the provided way to fight a traffic ticket in Virginia and Maryland.

Request a Hearing-You have the right to fight a traffic ticket by requesting a hearing in Virginia and Maryland states. This will provide you an opportunity to argue your case and present the evidence.

Get help from a Lawyer– If you have serious consequences related to traffic offenses, such as reckless driving or DWI/DUI, it is significant to hire a Traffic Ticket Attorney. An Attorney can assist you understand the legal rights and process of the cases.

Prepare Your Case– It is essential to prepare your case before you decide to contest your traffic ticket. This process may involve activities like collecting evidence, like photographs or witness statements and researching the laws and regulations of your ticket. So be prepared to present your case concisely and clearly.

Attend the Hearing– Make sure to attend the hearing, if you have requested it. Turn this as your chance to argue your opinion. Be ready to answer any questions asked by the judge and to submit additional information that may be requested by the court.

Appeal the Decision– you can have the choice to appeal the decision when you are convinced with the result of your hearing. This procedure can be quite complex, so it is highly recommended to consult with an attorney if you are proceeding with an appeal.

Conclusion

Recognizing the potential impacts of traffic violations in both Maryland and Virginia is crucial and the common penalties and offenses provided above would serve as a guide for the drivers to get away from the unnecessary problems related to traffic offenses. Always remember to drive safely and obey the traffic laws to avoid violations.

Additionally, both states offer programs for drivers to lower the devastating impacts of committing traffic violence on their records. The Point System Conference program is conducted in Maryland to learn more about safe driving practices and eventually minimize the points on the license. In Virginia, there is a program called Driver Improvement Program(DIP) that allows drivers to attend a defensive driving course for effective driving. However, consulting a well-knowledgeable Traffic Lawyer at the Law Offices Of SRIS.P.C. will guide you to better understand traffic offenses and their penalties in detail.