Every state has different rules for adjudicating traffic violation laws. Many states use a point system, where people can accrue demerit points for breaking traffic laws. If too many points accumulate, the driver can have their license suspended or revoked. Michigan is one such state that employs a point system. Read on to learn how it is handled when a person breaks traffic violation laws in Michigan.
When a person breaks traffic violation laws in Michigan, a number of different things can happen depending on the severity of the offense. Most commonly, traffic violations only result in fines and points on one's license. However, in severe cases, a person can be arrested for a misdemeanor or felony charge.
One unavoidable penalty for breaking traffic violation laws in Michigan is having pay court fees. Most often these are simply fines and associated surcharges, but in the case of a felony or misdemeanor charge you may need to pay for a lawyer as well.
Points may be added to your license regardless of the type of offense committed. Points are only added once a person has actually been convicted of breaking a motor vehicle law. More serious breaches of traffic violation laws in Michigan will result in more points. It is possible to fight a conviction if there are extenuating circumstances that caused you to break the law. Information regarding these circumstances must be submitted prior to your hearing date.
The most serious offenses are worth six points – a full half of the value that needs to be accumulated for a person's license to be suspended, restricted or even revoked entirely. Some of these offenses include: vehicular manslaughter or negligent homicide, operating under the influence of alcohol or controlled substances, reckless driving, and fleeing or attempting to escape a police officer.
The next tier of offenses will add four points to your license upon a conviction for breaking traffic violation laws in Michigan. These offenses include: drag racing, driving more than 16 miles per hour over the posted speed limit, and failure to yield for an emergency vehicle.
Two or three points are assessed for more minor offenses, such as careless driving, lesser speeding violations, open alcohol containers, and other general moving violations. This is just a general overview of the potential penalties for breaking traffic violation laws in Michigan. You should always be careful and follow the rules of the road if you want to completely avoid any traffic violations.
| If you need help with traffic tickets, consult with an attorney in your area. They may be able to help you fight the tickets in court. |
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