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Traffic violations are very common. In fact, many cases heard at the Municipal Court level relate to New Jersey traffic law. From speeding tickets to driving under the influence, there are many different traffic violations for which drivers can be ticketed or even arrested. The first step drivers should take when facing a traffic violation is to contact a local attorney. Leon Matchin, a Certified Municipal Court Trial Attorney, has worked with many clients over the years to successfully fight traffic violations in court. Thanks to his experience and skills, he can often have charges entirely dropped or at least downgraded to avoid more severe consequences like jail time. Next time you get in the car, think about traffic laws. Know that you can always contact an attorney if you need help.
Common New Jersey Traffic Law Offenses
Many different offenses fall under the traffic violation category. Check out some of the most common offenses and what they entail:
Driving with a suspended license.
It is against the law to drive with a suspended license. A driver’s license can be suspended for various reasons. These can include 12 or more points on your driver’s record or repeated DUIs.
Allowing someone to drive your car with a suspended license.
Just as it’s against the law to drive on your own suspended license, it is also illegal to knowingly let someone else drive your car with a suspended license. In this case, both the driver and the car owner will face the consequences.
Driving without insurance.
In New Jersey, owners and operators of motor vehicles must possess liability insurance with minimum coverage amounts of $15,000 for injury and death of one person, $30,000 for the injury or death of more than one person, and $5,000 for property damage.
Driving under the influence.
Driving under the influence of alcohol or other substances is illegal. If the driver is 21 years old or over, they can be charged with a DUI if their BAC is .08% or higher. If the driver is under 21, there is zero tolerance, and no alcohol can be found in their system.
Improperly passing a school bus.
If a school bus has its flashing lights on and stop signs out, you cannot pass it. Drivers must stop their vehicle at least 25 feet from the school bus.
Leaving the scene of an accident.
Your charge and penalties depend on whether there are injuries or property damage caused by an accident. Also, check out reviews online to learn about other people’s experiences with various attorneys.
Possession of controlled dangerous substances (CDS) in a motor vehicle.
It is illegal to have a CDS in your motor vehicle. A CDS can include illegal drugs like cocaine or heroin. It can also include prescription drugs like Xanax when not in a prescription bottle.
Reckless driving.
Driving with disregard for the safety of others qualifies as reckless driving. This charge includes things like excessive speeding or aggressively weaving in and out of lanes.
Speeding.
Speeding violations have a wide range of penalties based on how far over the speed limit you were driving. Penalties are also higher if you speed in a school zone.
Tailgating.
Tailgating is a dangerous traffic violation. New Jersey law considers the appropriate distance between vehicles to be two-second intervals on dry roads and four- to five-second intervals on wet roads.
Driving without a license.
Drivers must have a license in order to operate their motor vehicle. Driving without a license can lead to fines, surcharges, and jail time.
New Jersey Traffic Law and Violation Penalties
Traffic violation penalties can be much more than a simple ticket. These charges often come with hefty consequences. They include jail time, high fines, license suspension, points on your driving record, surcharges, and more. It can be overwhelming to navigate these charges on your own. That is why it’s critical to work with an experienced attorney.
Finding a Lawyer & Going to Court on New Jersey Traffic Law Charges
The first step in fighting your traffic violation in court is hiring an attorney that you trust. Find an attorney with years of experience. Also, check out Reviews online to learn about other people’s experiences with various attorneys. Once you find an attorney you are comfortable with, schedule an initial consultation. This meeting determines if the lawyer is right for you. During your initial consultation, bring with you any evidence that can help your case. Whether this is insurance documents, medical bills, pictures, etc., no piece of evidence is too small. Be upfront and honest with your attorney about the details of your case. This helps them create the strongest defense possible.
How An Attorney Can Help With New Jersey Traffic Law Violations
Leon Matchin has been practicing law for decades. He is a Certified Municipal Court Trial Attorney with years of experience defending clients on a variety of traffic violation and criminal offense cases. He draws on this experience to create successful defenses to help clients have their charges dropped or at least downgraded. New Jersey traffic law can be overwhelming, but Leon will guide you through the entire court process.
From your initial consultation to your court date, Leon effectively communicates strategy and how you can prepare for court. If you or a loved one face traffic violation charges, contact Leon by phone at 732-887-2479. You can also email him at [email protected]. He will set up a free, no-obligation consultation to review your case and go over your options.
