Traffic Violation Attorneys in Detroit, Michigan

Traffic violations are an everyday occurrence in life. Situations such as parking fines and speeding tickets seem commonplace. However, traffic violations can spiral into serious issues if you don’t take a smart and assertive approach to them. 

At Detroit Legal Group PLLC, our team of skilled criminal defense attorneys is ready to fight strategically on your behalf. If you live in Detroit, Dearborn, Southfield, Warren, or anywhere else in Michigan, contact us to set up a one-on-one consultation. 

What Is a Traffic Violation in Michigan? 

A traffic violation refers to offenses committed while operating a motor vehicle (i.e., car, truck, motorcycle). There are three main categories: 

• Infractions. These are the least serious traffic violations. Infractions include speeding or not wearing a seatbelt.  

• Misdemeanors. These traffic violations are more serious than infractions. They include driving under the influence (DUI), driving with a suspended or revoked license, and reckless driving. 

• Felonies. These are serious traffic violations, including hit and run or vehicular homicide. Felony charges may ensue from a DUI if the individual is a repeat offender. 

Please note that misdemeanors such as a DUI may become felonies in repeat offenses. As a result, the penalties may be greater, and might even include jail time. 

Moving Violations Vs. Non-Moving Violations in Michigan 

In Detroit and elsewhere in Michigan, traffic violations can be divided into moving and non-moving violations: 

• Moving violations involve the operation of a motor vehicle. For example, speeding, reckless driving, and failing to yield are moving violations. They are generally more serious than non-moving violations. 

• Non-moving violations include situations such as illegal parking and defective equipment in a motor vehicle (i.e., damaged headlights or unsafe tires). 

Most moving and non-moving violations may be considered infractions and dealt with by paying a fine or ticket. 

What Is Michigan’s Point System? 

In Michigan, drivers have a point system used to mark the number and severity of traffic violations. Accumulating too many points can temporarily suspend a driver’s license. Repeat suspensions can even lead to a revocation of a driver’s license.  

Here’s what happens when you accumulate points: 

• After accumulating four points, drivers receive a warning letter advising them to be careful while driving. 

• After eight points, drivers receive a second warning letter cautioning them to drive carefully. 

• After twelve points, the driver must re-take the driving examination. During this examination, the driver’s record, knowledge of traffic rules, operation test, and eyesight evaluation are conducted. 

Accruing points on a driver’s license can also negatively affect car insurance premiums. In some instances, too many points may cause insurance companies to deny coverage. That’s just one of the reasons hiring a criminal defense attorney to fight traffic violations is critical. A skilled attorney can help folks avoid accumulating points on their license.  

Examples of Traffic Violations Under the Michigan Point System 

Here is a look at the number of points drivers can get based on traffic violations: 

• Two-point violations include speeding under 10 mph below the speed limit, having an alcohol container in the vehicle, or driving with a suspended license. 

• Three-point violations include disobeying a traffic signal, improper passing, speeding over 11 to 15 mph, disobeying a school crossing guard, or failure to stop at a railroad. 

• Four-point violations include driving a vehicle while impaired, driving under 21 with any blood-alcohol content, driving over 16 mph above the speed limit, or failing to yield to an emergency vehicle. 

• Six-point violations include refusing a chemical test, a blood-alcohol level above .08, DUI, reckless driving, or fleeing from the police (among others). 

Hiring a criminal defense attorney is crucial when facing traffic violation charges. Charged individuals must exercise their right to a fair defense. 

Fighting Traffic Violations in Michigan 

Drivers may be able to fight traffic violation charges on the following grounds: 

• Disputing the officer involves challenging a law enforcement officer’s assessment of the traffic violation. This defense aims to reduce or dismiss charges. 

• Disputing the evidence consists of demonstrating there is insufficient or improper evidence to prove charges. 

• A mistake of fact refers to a person making an honest mistake and not showing intent to commit a traffic violation, such as speeding in an area without a posted speed limit. 

• A justified action refers to someone committing an action under extreme circumstances, such as speeding while rushing someone to the hospital.