Phoenix Traffic Lawyer

Arizona Moving Violation Citation Laws

If you were cited for a moving violation such as speeding or reckless driving, this could potentially result in a license suspension or even a revocation in the case of repeat offenses. Did you know that you can fight your tickets? Paying a ticket and going to traffic school, is like admitting guilt.

Just as is the case with a typical criminal offense, you can hire an attorney to fight your traffic ticket and prevent it from negatively impacting your driving record and possibly your insurance rates. The Phoenix traffic lawyers at Knowles Law Firm, PLC may be able to assist with your citation so that you don't have to face the penalties.

If you've been charged with a traffic offense, don't wait. Schedule your free consultation with a knowledgeable Phoenix traffic lawyer today. Call us at (602) 702-5431 or contact us online for immediate assistance.

Types of Traffic Offenses in Phoenix, AZ

Traffic offenses in Phoenix range from minor violations to serious crimes that can carry significant penalties. Whether you are facing a citation or a more serious charge, understanding the types of offenses is key to knowing what to expect. 

• Speeding Tickets: Arizona’s speeding laws are strict, and exceeding the speed limit can result in fines, points on your driving record, and even suspension of your license. In Phoenix, speeding fines increase with the severity of the violation. For example, if you exceed the speed limit by 20 miles per hour, you will be fined more than if you are just 5 miles per hour over the limit.
• Reckless Driving: Reckless driving is a more serious offense than simple speeding. It occurs when a driver shows a willful disregard for the safety of others on the road. This can include excessive speeding, tailgating, weaving in and out of traffic, or ignoring traffic signals. In Arizona, reckless driving can lead to fines, license suspension, and even jail time.
• DUI (Driving Under the Influence): Arizona has strict DUI laws, and a conviction can result in severe penalties, including license suspension, heavy fines, mandatory alcohol education classes, and even jail time.
• Red Light Violations and Stop Sign Violations: While these are typically considered minor offenses, they can still add points to your driving record and increase your insurance rates. In some cases, you may be eligible for a defensive driving course to avoid points on your record.
• Driving Without a License: Driving without a valid license is a serious offense in Arizona, and it can result in fines, vehicle impoundment, and even jail time.
• Hit and Run: If you are involved in an accident and leave the scene without providing your information or helping the injured parties, you may be charged with a hit-and-run. In Arizona, leaving the scene of an accident is a criminal offense, and it can result in serious penalties, including fines, license suspension, and jail time.

A Phoenix traffic lawyer can help clarify the specific offense you are charged with and offer guidance on how to handle it.

Penalties for Traffic Offenses in Phoenix

The penalties for traffic offenses in Phoenix depend on the nature of the violation. Minor offenses like speeding or running a red light may result in a fine, while more serious offenses such as reckless driving, DUI, or hit-and-run can carry severe penalties, including imprisonment.

Common penalties for traffic offenses in Phoenix include:

• Fines: Most traffic offenses result in fines, which vary depending on the offense. For example, speeding fines increase based on how far over the speed limit you were traveling.
• Points on Your License: Traffic offenses typically result in points being added to your driving record. Accumulating too many points can result in the suspension of your driver’s license.
• License Suspension or Revocation: Serious traffic offenses such as DUI or reckless driving can result in the suspension or revocation of your driver’s license.
• Jail Time: Some traffic offenses, particularly DUI or hit-and-run, can result in jail time. The length of the sentence depends on the severity of the offense and whether you have any prior convictions.
• Probation: In some cases, a judge may impose probation in place of jail time. During probation, you may be required to attend traffic school, pay fines, or complete community service.

Arizona Driver's License Revocation, Suspension & Traffic School

If your driver's license is revoked, there will be a $20 reinstatement fee as well as the potential requirement to submit a Certificate of Insurance document (SR-22). Driver's license revocation is different than suspension. Moving violations such as driving under the influence of drugs, vehicular homicide, and aggravated DUIs are just a few of the ways to get your driving privilege revoked. A first-time simple DUI will not be enough to get your driving privileges revoked, however, a second or subsequent DUI conviction will be. Two counts of reckless driving or racing on highways will also constitute a revocation of your license.

Having your driving privileges revoked can be viewed as a more permanent removal (that can be reinstated in most cases) while suspension is more of a temporary loss of driving privileges. The similarity between the two is that with both, the individual will have to apply for reinstatement.

According to the Arizona Department of Transportation (DOT), "If you accumulate 8 or more points in any 12-month period, you may be required to attend Traffic Survival School (TSS), or your driving privilege may be suspended for up to 12 months." If you fail to attend require traffic school or you continue to drive on a suspended or revoked license, you could be facing misdemeanor charges.

Need legal help with a traffic offense? Speak with a skilled Phoenix traffic lawyer for a free consultation. Call (602) 702-5431 or fill out our online form to get started.

Arizona MVD Points System

In the state of Arizona, a license can be suspended or revoked based upon "points" a driver has incurred on their driving record. The Motor Vehicle Department (MVD) keeps track of these points.