Is Your License in Jeopardy When You Get a Speeding Ticket?

Traffic laws represent the attributes every good driver should have and maintain, but no one is perfect. Every driver is likely to experience some type of moving violation during the lifetime of their license. Although, not all of those violations will equate to the removal or suspension of a license. Obviously, for serious offenses, such as a DUI, it is quite possible for a judge to revoke your license. However, is there ever a time when your license can be taken away for routine moving violations, and if so, is the removal permanent, or can your license be reinstated? The answer lies in the definition of a moving violation and the frequency of the improper use of your vehicle.

Routine Moving Violations

A moving violation is considered a breach of traffic law when driving. For example, rolling through a stop sign or running a red light. Also, speeding is a moving violation. These violations are considered routine and not necessarily reckless, although speeding is debatable. For example, a driver who is cited for going five or seven miles per hour over the speed limit is not as dangerous as someone driving 20 or 30 miles per hour over posted limits. The person driving at a higher speed may be cited or even arrested for reckless driving and possible endangerment, depending on the circumstances.

Excessive Violations and License Suspension

While a single speeding ticket, within reason, will not typically result in a suspension of your license, excessive violations might. For example, you may be allowed to receive two to three moving violations within a short window, but any more than that can result in your license being suspended.

If your license is suspended, that does not mean it is taken away for good. However, you will need to complete coursework or traffic education training before being able to reapply for a license renewal. Fortunately, most drivers are able to learn from a single ticket and do not typically repeat the same violation within a short time frame.

Traffic laws are in place to ensure the safety and responsibility of all drivers. Every time you put your key in the ignition, you are making a promise to other drivers that you will obey the law. Breaking those laws can result in a license suspension, especially for excessive violations in a short period of time. If your license has been suspended or you believe you were unfairly ticketed, consider contacting a traffic attorney, like a Criminal Defense Attorney in DC.

Thank you to the experts at The Law Firm of Frederick J. Brynn, P.C., for their insight into criminal defense law.