Traffic violations are strictly enforced in the Commonwealth of Virginia and can result in a wide range of penalties. Drivers that are convicted of traffic violations, such as by signing a ticket, will be required to pay a fine, and in some cases, may receive points or a suspension on their license. Traffic tickets can be issued for a number of reasons, such as speeding, neglectfully running a red light, or making an improper U-turn. Other situations, such as driving with a broken light or with a restricted license can also lead to a traffic violation.
How Traffic Tickets Work In Virginia
In the Commonwealth of Virginia, the fines associated with traffic violations differ based on the severity of the offense. For speeding tickets, the penalties will be higher or lower depending on how much the driver exceeded the posted speed limit. A driver can receive points on their license for traffic citations, regardless of whether the offense was willful or negligent. They may also be expected to complete a driver improvement program upon conviction of a traffic violation to avoid license suspension.
The costs on the speeding ticket will include any associated expenses, an extra $5.00 for each mile over the speed limit, and court fees. For other moving violations, the penalties are typically fixed but may differ depending on whether the offense took place in a construction zone, school zone, or other area. Drivers are expected to pay their fines within 30 days of receiving a ticket by mail, phone, or internet in Virginia. Deferred payments can be arranged in some cases; however, if an individual does not honor their payments, they may be subject to a license suspension, increase in fines, or potentially a warrant for their arrest.
Steps To Take After Receiving A Traffic Ticket
If you have a reason to disagree with the violations you have been charged with, it is important that you opt to appear in court. You can decide whether to represent yourself or have a traffic defense attorney represent you on your behalf. With the help of an experienced Virginia traffic attorney, you may be able to waive the court fees and/or reduce the overall cost of the traffic ticket. If the court finds you guilty of the initial charges, you may receive points on your license, which may in turn raise your insurance rates. In order to lower the points issued to your license, you may have the option to participate in a driver improvement program.
Contact A Virginia Traffic Ticket Defense Attorney Today
Traffic tickets are taken very seriously in Virginia, but with the right legal assistance, you may be able to reduce your fines. Therefore, it is recommended that you work with an experienced traffic defense attorney upon receiving a traffic ticket. If you have been charged with a traffic violation in the Commonwealth of Virginia, reach out to the Law Offices of Kermit A. Monge, PLLC. Our Virginia traffic defense attorneys will ensure the court understands your case and fight to reduce the penalties listed on your ticket. To learn more about traffic tickets or receive legal assistance, give us a call at 703.273.5500 or request a consultation online today.