12 Nov Can Traffic Offenses Put You in Jail?
Typically when people think of violating traffic laws, they think of getting a ticket and maybe paying a fine. However, that’s only for minor traffic violations. In Arizona, several traffic offenses can have you facing criminal charges and even jail time.
Criminal vs. Civil Traffic Offenses in Arizona
Criminal traffic offenses are not the slap-on-the-wrist fines we typically imagine—those are actually civil traffic offenses. Major violations like excessive speed and reckless or aggressive driving could mean fines, jail time, and even the loss of your license.
If you are charged with a criminal traffic offense in Arizona, you face arrest and must stand before a judge and make a plea. If you plead not guilty, there will be a trial, and if you plead guilty, the judge will proceed with sentencing.
In Arizona, there is a major difference between criminal and civil traffic violations. Civil offenses are not considered crimes. However, a criminal traffic offense is a misdemeanor, and adding DUI charges could even make it a felony. This means that pleading guilty or losing your trial will leave you with a criminal record.
What Counts as a Criminal Traffic Offense in Arizona?
1: Criminal Speeding
This is a class 3 misdemeanor, and the consequences can include up to 30 days in jail, up to $500 in fines, a year of probation, and 3 points on your license. The following actions count as criminal speeding:
- Exceeding 35 miles per hour while heading into a school zone
- Exceeding 20 miles per hour over the posted speed limit in a residential or business district
- Exceeding 85 miles per hour in any location
2: Reckless Driving
This is a class 3 misdemeanor and is punishable by up to one year of probation or 30 days in jail, along with up to $500 in fines. Reckless driving is defined as driving with a disregard for other people and their safety. This charge is often linked with road rage.
3: Aggressive Driving
Aggressive driving can be charged as a class 1 misdemeanor, which can mean up to three years probation or 180 days in jail, along with up to $2,500 in fines. Aggressive driving happens when a person commits a traffic violation and their driving also poses an immediate hazard to someone else. Things like failing to stop at a red light, illegally passing another vehicle, making an unsafe lane change, or following another vehicle too closely can all count as aggressive driving.
Driving Under the Influence
It is always a crime to be in control of a motor vehicle if you are under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Arizona defines “under the influence” as being impaired by any substance, legal or not. Making any identifiable attempt to drive a vehicle (like putting the keys in the ignition), can lead to a DUI, which means you do not need to be actively driving to be charged.
Depending on the circumstances, charges for a DUI can range from a class 1 misdemeanor to a class 4 felony. Penalties may include the following:
- Minimum time incarcerated
- Fines starting at over $1,000
- Installation of an interlock device in your vehicle
- Suspension or revocation of your license
- Alcohol or drug counseling
Facing Serious Traffic Charges? Contact the Best Lawyer in Arizona
Criminal traffic violations are taken seriously in Arizona. This means that to fight criminal traffic charges, you need excellent representation in court. Public defenders are often overworked, and cannot dedicate the right amount of time in clearing a charge. This is why you need a criminal law expert like Todd Coolidge on your side. With his extensive experience and personal dedication, you’ll be getting the best defense in the state. Contact us today for a consultation on your case.
Images used under creative commons license – commercial use (11/11/24). Photo by why kei on Unsplash.