Receiving a speeding ticket can be a minor situation that requires only the payment of a fine. If you receive multiple speeding tickets or a speeding ticket for going far in excess of the speed limit, there are potential serious consequences. To start with, you could lose your driver’s license. You may have problems getting car insurance or your car insurance company may significantly raise your insurance premiums.
Reckless Driving
If you are driving far over the speed limit it can be considered reckless driving. Reckless driving, unlike a speeding ticket, is a misdemeanor, a crime punishable by time in jail. Should you receive a reckless driving ticket, it is strongly suggested you retain an attorney familiar with handling these matters to represent you. If you are found guilty of reckless driving, it does not give you points on your license. It gives you a fine and possibly a jail sentence.
Driving While Intoxicated
If you are stopped by a police officer concerning a speeding ticket, he or she may make further inquiry as to whether you are driving while intoxicated. Driving while intoxicated is seriously punished in the State of New York. A charge of driving while intoxicated may result in your spending a night in jail and being arraigned in front a judge the next day. Some counties also have car forfeiture statutes which may cause you to lose your vehicle if convicted of the driving while intoxicated charge.
Car Accidents and DWIs
If you are involved in a DWI that results in a car accident, the prosecutors in New York take that even more seriously. Even if you are not at fault, you may be blamed for the accident because you were driving while intoxicated. This can lead to civil lawsuits against you, loss of your insurance, loss of your car, and possible incarceration.
Criminal Defense Lawyer
The law involving speeding tickets, DWIs, and reckless driving can become fairly complicated. Facts in each case are unique to that case. The best way to deal with these matters is to retain a criminal attorney who is familiar in dealing with these issues. He or she will be able to protect your rights and obtain the best possible outcome.
Elliot S. Schlissel and his associates, for more than 35 years, have represented clients on speeding tickets, driving while intoxicated charges, and all other misdemeanor and felony criminal charges. The law offices’ phones are monitored 24/7. Call us for a free consultation should you have questions or problems regarding criminal matters or speeding tickets.
