So much can happen in the blink of an eye while driving. You may either purposely or inadvertently break traffic laws while behind the wheel. While some traffic offenses only result in a civil fine, some traffic offenses in Arizona are so serious that they go beyond mere civil infractions and are considered criminal acts.
What are some examples of criminal traffic offenses?
There are a variety of ways a motorist could be charged with a crime due to a traffic offense. They include:
- Drunk driving,
- Driving over the posted speed limit in a school zone,
- Reckless driving that endangers others,
- Vehicular manslaughter,
- Driving without motor vehicle insurance, and
- Driving when your license is suspended
This list is not all-exhaustive, there is a wide variety of circumstances in which a person could be charged with a criminal traffic offense in Florida.
What are your rights when you are charged with a criminal traffic violation?
People who are accused of a criminal traffic offense has certain rights by law. They have the right to a trial overseen by a judge, and sometimes a jury. In addition, they have the right to an attorney throughout the trial process. Defendants in criminal cases involving traffic violations have the right to confront witnesses and to cross-examine these witnesses. They also have the right to have subpoenas issued to compel witnesses to attend the trial.
Those accused of a criminal traffic offense has the right to remain silent if they choose. They also are presumed to be innocent until proven guilty. The burden of proof lies with the prosecution to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. Finally, unless they entered a guilty plea, they have the right to appeal a guilty verdict.
Seek help if you are charged with a criminal traffic violation
It is important to take any traffic violation seriously, especially criminal traffic offenses. Criminal traffic offenses could lead to hefty fines, the loss of your driver’s license and possibly a jail sentence. Moreover, having a criminal record that impacts your life for years to come. Those in Arizona accused of a criminal traffic offense will want to seek the help necessary to develop a solid legal strategy in their favor.
Author Bio
Matthew L. Lopez
Matthew L. Lopez is the Managing Attorney and founder of Matthew Lopez Law, a criminal defense and DUI firm serving clients throughout Arizona. His track record of case dismissals and charge reductions has earned him honors, including a National Trial Lawyers Top 40 Under 40 nomination, a “Superb” 10/10 Avvo rating, and a Rising Star designation by Super Lawyers.
Matthew is a member of the National College for DUI Defense and holds active memberships with the Arizona Association for Criminal Justice and the Arizona Association for Justice. His firm handles criminal defense, DUI, drug charges, and traffic offenses, offering free consultations and affordable payment plans to make quality defense accessible to all Arizonans.
