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Florida Criminal Traffic Violation Law Firm

Criminal traffic offenses are violations of the law that can carry harsh penalties and consequences. In the state of Florida, offenders may be charged with misdemeanors or felonies, depending on the severity of the offenses and whether the drivers are habitual traffic offenders. When a driver commits a misdemeanor violation, law enforcement has broad discretion on whether to arrest or issue a Notice to Appear. When issued a Notice to Appear, an alleged offender is mandated to report to the court within a designated time—failure to appear results in the issuance of an arrest warrant. When a driver commits a felony offense, they face an immediate arrest.

What is a Habitual Traffic Offender?

In Florida, a habitual traffic offender is a person that accrues 15 or more moving traffic convictions within five years. Furthermore, they are designated a habitual traffic offender if three or more times within five years, they are convicted of the following:

  • Vehicular manslaughter
  • Commission of a felony while using a vehicle
  • Driving with a suspended or revoked license
  • Failure to provide aid at an accident scene involving injury or death
  • Operating a commercial motor vehicle while their privilege is disqualified. (See Florida Statute 322.264)

Potential Consequences if Convicted

There can be harsh consequences associated with a conviction of a criminal traffic violation, subject to the severity of the crime and the defendant’s past criminal history. Legal sanctions may include prison or jail time, probation, home confinement, traffic classes, fines, suspension or revocation of driver’s license, and an ignition interlock device for DUI offenders. Non-criminal or collateral consequences may include:

  • loss of insurance or higher premiums
  • loss of employment
  • deportation for non-citizens
  • ineligibility for government benefits

In addition, a criminal traffic conviction can affect educational and housing opportunities and cause reputation damage.

Examples of Criminal Traffic Violations in Florida:

  • Driving Under the Influence
  • Habitual Traffic Offender
  • Refusal to Submit to a Breath Test
  • Reckless Driving
  • No Valid Driver’s License
  • Using an Expired or Suspended Driver’s License
  • Leaving the Scene of an Accident
  • Vehicular Homicide or Manslaughter
  • Attempt to Elude Law Enforcement
  • No Motorcycle Endorsement

Let Us Protect Your Driving Privileges and Your Future

Due to the serious nature of criminal traffic violations, we strongly encourage you to consult with a knowledgeable criminal defense traffic attorney if you face a Notice to Appear or an arrest. At the Law Office of Alison M. Lopes, we can build a strong case on your behalf to strengthen the probability of a favorable outcome. We understand criminal traffic law, and there are countless ways to defend against the alleged violations. Attorney Alison Lopes has extensive experience in the courtroom for traffic and traffic-related criminal defense cases for more than a decade.

Call our office to schedule a consultation to explore your best options and strategies for reducing the charges or dismissing your case. We offer helpful information about the overall process and discuss the best approaches and the potential outcomes. Contact the Law Office of Alison M. Lopes in Orlando, Florida at 407-442-2724.

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