Did you know that Virginia ranks as one of the highest states in the union for reckless driving and speeding?
You have to be careful when you go out on the road these days. But it’s not just other drivers you should be on the lookout for. Policemen are eager to fill their quotas, and they’ll gladly pull you over for a traffic violation.
Traffic violations can be more than just a fine and inconvenience. They can add points to your record or much worse. You may need the help of a traffic defense lawyer.
In this guide, we’ll discuss what a traffic defense lawyer is and why you need one.
What Is a Traffic Defense Lawyer?
A traffic defense lawyer fights for you in the event that you get a traffic violation. Traffic violations can often be minor, such as running a red light or skipping a stop sign. But sometimes, they can be severe, such as a DUI or reckless driving.
Here are some common traffic violations that carry stiff penalties:
- Overtaking a school bus
- Driving a car without a current license
- Driving a car with an open container of alcohol inside
- Causing an accident
- Driving on a suspended license
- Refusing to take a breathalyzer test
- Street racing
- A hit-and-run accident
- Driving under the influence
Traffic violations, especially the more severe ones, can pose a real threat to yourself and your record. They can result in high fines, jail time, points, and increased insurance rates. Without a lawyer, you have no choice but to eat these harsh consequences.
A Virginia traffic defense lawyer has dealt with situations like this before. They know the ins and outs of the legal system. With their help, you stand a better chance at reducing–or throwing out entirely–the charges against you.
With that said, let’s discuss the three benefits of a traffic defense lawyer.
1. The Best Traffic Defense Lawyer Can Reduce Insurance Rates
Driving is getting more expensive every minute. Gas prices are skyrocketing, and used vehicles cost three times as much as they used to. The last thing you want is higher insurance premiums.
Any time you get involved in a traffic violation or accident, your insurance company raises your premiums. This is because you’ve proven to be a liability, and they won’t cover you without a higher rate. It may take years before they reduce their rates to what you had before.
The way they do this is by taking into account points on your license. These points are not permanent, though they will linger there for a long time.
A traffic defense lawyer in Virginia can help to reduce the number of points you get–and thus your insurance premiums. These premiums can add up to a huge amount over time. In this economy, the last thing you need is a greater financial burden.
2. They Can Reduce Your Sentence
When you go to court, the judge will review all the pertinent evidence and sentence you. Without a lawyer, the only thing they have to go off of besides the evidence in your appeal. Judges are hard to sway, so your plea for a lesser sentence may fall on deaf ears.
Lawyers know the law, and they know judges. They know which arguments work and which ones the judge may ignore. They know how to navigate this legal battle to ensure you get the most forgiving deal.
This is known as plea bargaining. In most cases, a lawyer won’t be able to throw out a verdict. But they will be able to reduce the sentence to one that is far less severe.
That means you’ll spend less jail time and avoid having your license suspended for long periods. You’ll be able to leave your traffic incident behind sooner.
3. They Can Help Prepare for Your Case
Much of what decides the result of your case happens before you even reach the courtroom. There is evidence to gather and statements to make. Law enforcement may decide whether or not to sit in for your court appearance.
There’s a lot you can do to get a more favorable sentence, and a lawyer will be there to guide you through the process. They can tell you what evidence will speak strongly in your favor. They can coach you on what things you should say to give a good impression on the court.
They also know what you shouldn’t do. Lawyers can tell you what clothing to avoid or what topics. They know how to appeal to juries and what tactics to use when fighting a case.
Coming prepared can make all the difference, and many falsely assume that the judge will be good and fair. A lawyer can help you anticipate contingencies that you might not have known about yourself.
At the end of the day, fighting your own case would be very difficult. It’s not just that you don’t have the requisite knowledge about legal proceedings; it’s the fact that there’s a lot of work to do. With a full-time job and other responsibilities, this could be a heavy burden.
Hire a Traffic Defense Lawyer in Virginia
Traffic violations happen all the time, but their consequences can cause you a lot of inconveniences–or worse. A traffic defense lawyer specializes in these sorts of cases. With their help, you can reduce insurance premiums and your sentencing.
Nicewicz Attorney at Law is one of Virginia’s top legal firms. They’ve fought for many cases like your own, and they’ve got a track record of winning. Contact them today and get a case evaluation before you head to court.