In Jupiter, a traffic violation could lead to fines, jail time, driving classes, increased insurance, probation, a suspended driver’s license, and various other consequences. However, enlisting the assistance of a Jupiter traffic lawyer from Leifert & Leifert could make a substantial difference in the outcome of your case.
You do not have to face a traffic charge alone. If you are charged with a traffic-related crime or offense, an aggressive defense attorney from our firm may be able to help you consider your options and ensure you act in your own best interests.
Driving Under the Influence in Jupiter
Florida Statutes §316.193 makes it a crime to drive while under the influence of drugs or alcohol. A person may be deemed under the influence if their “normal faculties” are impaired. A person whose blood alcohol concentration (BAC) is equal to or greater than 0.08 percent at the time of arrest may also be considered under the influence, as per this statute.
A person convicted of driving under the influence (DUI) for the first time would receive a mandatory fine of $500 and a potential maximum fine of $2,000. Furthermore, if a defendant’s BAC was equal to 0.15 percent or higher at the time of arrest, the minimum fine could total $2,000 with a maximum of $5,000. A first DUI conviction may also result in a mandatory 50 hours of community service.
The maximum jail sentence for a first DUI conviction is typically one year, although a defendant may petition the Court to enter a rehabilitation program rather than serve time in jail. Furthermore, a person convicted of a DUI could have their license suspended. If this occurs, a Jupiter traffic attorney could petition the Court for a limited driver’s license on your behalf by showing that the suspension caused you undue “hardship.”
What is a Reckless Driving Offense?
Reckless driving is a criminal charge which could lead to a $500 fine and up to 90 days in jail for a first offense. Florida law defines reckless driving as operating a vehicle with “willful or wanton disregard for the safety of persons or property.”
If a person is seriously injured or property is damaged as a result of a defendant’s reckless driving, the potential punishments can be more severe. In some cases, they may include up to five years in prison and a fine of $5,000, in addition to having to pay for any property damaged caused.
Consequences of Careless Driving
State law also criminalizes careless driving as a separate, lesser offense than reckless driving, defining it as operating a vehicle on a public road without regard for “width, grade, curves, corners, traffic, and all other attendant circumstances.” Taking a turn too fast or weaving in and out of traffic, even while driving within the speed limit, could lead to a careless driving charge.
A person convicted of careless driving would likely be required by the Court to complete a driver’s education program. Due to the subjective nature of this charge, it is often worth challenging such a charge with the help of a Jupiter traffic lawyer.
Which Traffic Infractions Involve Speeding?
Driving at an unlawful speed is the most common traffic violation in Jupiter. It should be noted, though, that speeding is not typically a crime, but rather an offense in its own class of traffic violations.
Florida state law requires all drivers to drive at a speed which is prudent and reasonable under the conditions and with “regard to actual and potential hazards.” This means that it is possible to receive a citation for driving at an excessive speed even if a driver is going slower than the posted speed limit, depending on the hazards present on the road.
A violation for operating a vehicle at an unlawful speed could lead to fines, points against your driver’s license, and increased insurance rates. Jupiter traffic lawyers could help mitigate the consequences of speeding charges by contesting the evidence against you or potentially negotiating a plea agreement.
Reach out to a Jupiter Traffic Attorney Today
No matter what potential traffic violation you may be accused of, dedicated legal counsel may be able to help. Hiring a Jupiter traffic lawyer from Leifert & Leifert could save you money in terms of fines and increased insurance rates, so call today to learn more about how we could assist in your case.
