For many people, dealing with a traffic ticket might seem like too much of a time commitment. While it may seem easier to simply pay the ticket, there are costly consequences you might not be aware of. Failing to resolve a ticket properly could result in spending thousands of dollars in the future.
Thankfully, you have the right to hire a Knoxville traffic lawyer to defend you. In some situations, they could resolve your case without any mark on your record. Before agreeing to a plea bargain, reach out to a dedicated defense attorney at Price Benowitz.
Someone could be ticketed for a wide range of offenses. Some of these are classified as moving violations, while others are considered criminal offenses. The primary difference between the two is the potential for jail time if convicted. Some of the most common traffic charges include:
While most of these cases may result in a citation and a warning to avoid speeding or careless driving in the future, some may lead to an arrest. It is common for police to take drivers into custody for impaired or reckless driving. In such situations, the support of a Knoxville driving offense attorney could be beneficial.
Two primary consequences are associated with most traffic offenses. The first is a monetary fine, which could vary depending on the type of violation, such as traveling speed and a prior history of traffic offenses. The second is the points on the offender’s license.
Tennessee has a point system that applies to all drivers registered in the state. Each time a driver is convicted of a traffic offense, a specified number of points is added to their license. If a set number of points is accumulated in a short amount of time, the license may be suspended.
Most offenses carry between three and eight points. The more dangerous the behavior, the higher the point value of the offense. For example, improperly backing out of a parking spot is worth three points, while failing to stop at a railroad crossing is worth eight.
Sometimes, drivers could face collateral consequences. The cost of auto insurance often increases for each traffic violation on record. In some situations, the policy might be cancelled entirely.
These collateral consequences can be frustrating, but they only apply in the case of conviction. A traffic attorney could help Knoxville drivers avoid a conviction or negotiate a plea that keeps their record clean.
Working with an attorney who is familiar with traffic infractions in Knoxville could be invaluable. The right attorney could help drivers understand the nuances of these cases. They may also have insight into the specific court or judge with whom the case is filed, which could improve the case outcome.
From speeding tickets to more serious traffic offenses, relying on the guidance of skilled legal counsel could benefit you. You have options when fighting these charges, even in situations where the consequences of a conviction seem minor.
Do not risk unexpected license suspensions or increased insurance costs. Reach out to Price Benowitz today for a free case evaluation with a Knoxville traffic lawyer.
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