Why Traffic Violations & Driving Charges Should be Taken Seriously

Traffic law violations and driving offences are not uncommon, but it doesn't mean that they should be dismissed or not considered serious. Particularly if you or someone you know has been charged with dangerous driving causing damage, injury or death, it's particularly important to understand the consequences and to take steps to ensure you receive the best possible outcome.

Driving infractions can vary from simple tickets to the possibility of a Criminal Code conviction, depending on the subsisting facts. These are just some of the consequences that can results from traffic violations and driving offences:

Higher Insurance

Even seemingly small traffic tickets can cause your insurance rates to climb. To your insurance company, a traffic ticket means that you’re a liability which could end up costing them money, so they raise your rates. A few violations that can cause higher insurance rates are:

·         Speeding

·         Running a Red Light or Stop Sign

·         Distracted Driving

License Suspension

Your license can be suspended for several reasons ranging from minor to major driving offences:

·         Multiple Minor Tickets: Whether you have multiple speeding tickets or a few tickets for seemingly minor violations, you could be at risk for having your license suspended.

·         Impaired Driving: Also known as drunk driving or driving under the influence of drugs.

·         Careless Driving: Driving without due care and attention or without reasonable consideration for persons using the highway.

Jail Sentence

While it isn't likely that you will go to jail for speeding, there are more serious types of traffic crimes that can carry jail sentences. Particularly with a serious driving offence, you should seek the help of some of the most experienced lawyers Edmonton has to offer. Haryett & Company have been working to protect the rights of those charged with driving offences that include the following for more than 20 years:

·         Leaving the Scene of an Accident: Leaving the scene of an accident without waiting for the authorities to arrive, even if no one was injured, can result in charges. In instances where you leave the scene of an accident that involved injuries or death, charges can carry jail time.

·         Careless Driving: Careless driving causing injury or death can carry stiff penalties, including a jail sentence.

·         DUI: Causing serious injury or death while driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs

Whether you have received a few traffic tickets or a serious driving violation, now's the time to seek legal advice. Haryett & Company will provide you with the professional advice and legal defense you need. Contact us today.