Traffic Tickets Impose a Legal Duty
We all get traffic tickets in Muskogee, Oklahoma.
From failing to have proof of insurance to an expired meter, traffic tickets, when issued, impose a duty upon us. In that sense, they are legal documents.
Most of the time, a traffic ticket imposes a legal duty to pay a fine. However, it can also impose a duty to take an affirmative action such fixing a taillight or showing proof of insurance to a judge.
Traffic Violations: Misdemeanor or Felony?
Usually, these are misdemeanor violations, typically called infractions.
However, when a traffic violation results in injury or the threat of immediate injury to a person or to property, that violation can be a felony.
Reckless driving — defined as driving carelessly or wantonly and without regard for the safety of persons or property around you — is classified as a misdemeanor. Okla. Stat. tit. 47 § 11-901
However, a repeat DUI (driving under the influence), is charged as a felony if the prior DUI occurred within the last 10 years.
Penalties Can Vary
Penalties vary quite a bit, and some can involve jail time. This is especially true with multiple violations.
A first conviction for reckless driving is punishable by 5 to 90 days of jail time, a fine between $100 and $500, or both.
The penalties become harsher with subsequent convictions. A subsequent violation is punishable by a jail term of between 10 and 180 days, a fine between $100 and $1,000, or both.
Likewise, penalties for a DUI increase with each conviction.
While a first DUI conviction is punishable by up to a year in jail, a fine of up to $1,000, or both, a second conviction could subject you to up to five years in prison.
A third DUI conviction can result in up to 10 years in prison in addition to fines.
The court can also impose treatment, loss of license, and other losses of rights and privileges at its discretion. Okla. Stat. tit. 47 § 11-902
Points Add Up
Oklahoma is a state that uses a point system for driving infractions. Every moving violation has a point value. Too many points on your driving record over a period of time can result in increased auto insurance premiums and ultimately the loss of driving privileges.
A Traffic Ticket Attorney Can Help
There are things you can do when facing jail time, a fine, or the loss of your license.
When you pay the fine or go to jail, you are pleading guilty or no contest to the charges against you.
When you contest a ticket, a court appearance is required.
Any time you need to make a court appearance on a criminal matter, it is a good idea to have an attorney by your side.
Sometimes, the citation issued is unfair or the penalty may be more than a person can handle. In all these cases, a traffic lawyer can argue on your behalf.
If you are charged with a felony, you should always have an attorney with you.
Confidential Consultation: Muskogee Traffic Ticket Lawyer
Get help when you need it most. Work with an experienced traffic ticket lawyer in Muskogee, Oklahoma, to get a fair shake in court and to protect your freedom. Call us today at 918-884-7774.