Ohio and other states have enacted laws that elevate minor traffic offenses to a category of offenses called “serious traffic violations.”
This category of offenses is separate from other more serious offenses. However, serious traffic violations can still cost you your CDL and your job.
Being charged does not mean that you are guilty of the offense or that you will be convicted. An attorney can work to obtain a reduced violation, a no-points violation or even a dismissal.
For legal assistance with your Columbus traffic ticket, contact us online or at 614.695.5000.
Dangers Of Prepaying A Ticket
You may have the option of prepaying your traffic ticket. The cost of prepaying a ticket may be greater than you think. Prepaying a ticket is equivalent to a guilty plea, and you will be convicted of the offense charged in your ticket.
Aside from the financial cost, a traffic conviction for certain moving violations may result in:
- CDL disqualification
- Job loss
- Points on your driving record
- Increased insurance premiums
A conviction may appear on background checks run by current or future employers or by professional licensing authorities.
What Offenses Are Considered Serious Traffic Violations?
A serious traffic violation can include the following:
- Operating a commercial vehicle without the required CDL
- Texting or using a handheld phone while driving (unless doing so to contact law enforcement or other emergency services)
- Driving without a valid CDL for the proper or specific vehicle being operated or for the passengers or type of cargo being transported
Serious traffic violations apply to noncommercial vehicles as well if you are:
- Speeding 15 miles per hour or more over the speed limit
- Driving with disregard for the safety of people or property, or reckless driving
- Committing a traffic violation, other than a parking violation, that results in a fatal accident
- Changing lanes unsafely (marked lanes violation) or following too closely behind another vehicle
- Violating any other Ohio law or other state laws if driving out of state
If you are convicted of two serious traffic violations within a three-year period, you could lose your license for 60 days, or 120 days if you are convicted of three or more.
Consult A Skilled Attorney To Discuss Your Ticket
Our attorney has extensive experience with serious CDL traffic violations. Learn how we can help you by scheduling an initial consultation at 614.695.5000 or through our online contact form.
We serve the entire Columbus metro.
