Feeling anxious about a recent traffic violation? Not sure if you will get a slap on the wrist or something more severe? The uncertainty can be overwhelming. But don’t worry—knowledge is power, and understanding the potential outcomes can help ease your stress.
In this post, we will dive into the different outcomes for traffic offences, shedding light on what you might expect and how to best prepare yourself. Keep reading to get the clarity you need and discover how a skilled Criminal Lawyers Liverpool can be your greatest ally in navigating these murky waters.
What constitutes traffic violations?
A grave traffic violation constitutes a criminal act where the accused engages in any of the following actions:
- Exceeding the speed limit significantly
- Handling a vehicle under the influence of alcohol
- Driving under the influence of drugs
- Displaying careless, dangerous, or reckless driving behaviour
- Driving under circumstances where it’s prohibited, such as without a valid license, with a suspended license, or as a learner driver without a supervising adult
Less severe traffic infractions may encompass matters like parking citations and citations received via mail for speeding or running a red light. Typically, these penalties do not necessitate a court appearance unless the fine remains unpaid. So, you may not be required to hire a criminal lawyer in Liverpool.
What are the consequences of traffic violations?
The primary repercussion across all types of traffic infractions, including minor ones, involves the deduction of demerit points from your driving record. However, the number of demerit points you lose hinges on the nature of the offence committed and may vary depending on specific criteria.
For instance, in cases of driving under the influence, this can be influenced by your blood alcohol concentration (BAC), or in instances of speeding, by how much you exceeded the speed limit.
For serious traffic violations, you will be summoned to appear at a hearing in the Magistrates’ Court, where you may face fines at the minimum. So, it’s advisable to seek counsel from traffic or criminal lawyers in Liverpool before your hearing, as they can provide insights into potential outcomes:
Suspension or revocation of your license
Your license may be suspended for a specific duration, or in severe cases, permanently or indefinitely revoked.
Undertaking
An Undertaking entails pledging to the court to either perform or abstain from certain actions to prevent the recurrence of the offence. For traffic violations, these may include commitments such as:
- Abstaining from driving during certain hours
- Maintaining a zero BAC while driving
- Avoiding driving certain vehicles or in specific areas
Violating an Undertaking can lead to more severe consequences and will be recorded in your police record.
Community Corrections Order
Instead of paying a fine or serving jail time, the judge may permit you to undertake community service. This could depend on factors such as demonstrating an inability to pay the fine.
Vehicle impoundment
If found guilty of reckless or hoon driving, authorities may impound your vehicle temporarily. In repeat offences or severe cases, your vehicle may be permanently seized or mandated for sale.
Interlock system
An interlock device, connected to your ignition, requires you to register a zero BAC or a level stipulated by the court before starting the vehicle. If concerns arise about the potential need for an interlock system, seek advice from drink-driving or criminal lawyers in Liverpool, who can offer support, guidance, and expert insight.
Could you face imprisonment for driving infractions?
If you cause harm while engaging in a driving offence, particularly if it leads to injury, hospitalization, or fatality, imprisonment may be a possibility. Additionally, failing to pay a fine or violating an Undertaking could also result in imprisonment.
Do driving offences appear on a police check?
To avoid a police record, it’s advisable to have legal representation accompany you to the Magistrates’ Court. A criminal lawyer in Liverpool can negotiate and seek alternative resolutions to prevent a police record.
If found guilty by the court, you will receive a criminal record unless you successfully pursue one of these avenues:
Request a diversion program
This program offers an alternative to acquiring a criminal record and typically involves fulfilling obligations such as:
- Participating in counselling
- Completing a defensive driving course
- Making a donation
- Engaging in community service
Appeal the verdict
Dissatisfied with the judge’s ruling, you can contest the decision in the County Court. The County Court judge may determine that the initial penalty was excessive and opt for a lesser penalty that avoids a police record.
Final Word:
Driving can lead to devastating accidents when not done safely, which is why there are so many laws in place to help keep the community safe. Yet, despite our best intentions, traffic offences can happen, leaving many wondering about the possible consequences they might face.
Therefore, understanding the potential outcomes of traffic offences is crucial for navigating legal proceedings effectively. Seek guidance from experienced criminal defence lawyers in Liverpool to mitigate penalties and protect your record. We recommend Oxford Lawyers, as their expertise is second to none. With their support, you will be able to get out of the trouble’s way soon.