What is considered a major traffic violation in Georgia? It’s a question with real consequences. A simple mistake can lead to fines, license suspension, or even jail. In Georgia, some traffic violations are treated more seriously than others. These are not small slips. They are seen as dangerous or reckless. The law comes down hard on them. They stay on records. They carry points. They can change lives.

Driving Under the Influence (DUI)

This is one of the most serious offenses. Getting caught driving under the influence in Georgia means more than a ticket. A first offense can lead to jail, a suspended license, and heavy fines. It only takes a blood alcohol content of 0.08 to cross the line. If the driver is underage, the limit is even lower. Refusing a breath test makes things worse. The court can order DUI school, probation, and even an ignition interlock device. DUI is a criminal offense. It shows up on background checks. It affects jobs, school, and insurance.

Reckless Driving

Reckless driving is more than just speeding. It means putting others in danger on purpose or through careless choices. Swerving through traffic. Running red lights. Tailgating at high speed. In Georgia, reckless driving is a misdemeanor. It adds four points to a driving record. It can lead to jail time. It can also trigger a license suspension, especially for drivers under 21.

Hit and Run

Leaving the scene of an accident is a major violation. Georgia law requires drivers to stop, share information, and help if someone is hurt. Leaving without doing that is a crime. If the accident caused injury or death, the charge becomes a felony. That means prison. A conviction also brings license suspension and major fines. Even minor hit-and-runs are taken seriously. The court wants accountability.

Racing and Aggressive Driving

Street racing is illegal in Georgia. So is aggressive driving. This includes blocking other drivers, brake-checking, or weaving through cars in a threatening way. Both are considered major offenses. Racing carries stiff penalties. Fines. Jail. Loss of license. Aggressive driving adds points and can be paired with reckless driving charges. These behaviors show a lack of control. The court treats them that way.

Driving With a Suspended License

If a driver gets behind the wheel with a suspended license, it becomes a major violation. It shows the court that the driver ignored the law. Georgia does not take that lightly. A first offense can mean jail and more time without a license. A second offense carries higher penalties. The court may see it as a pattern. That brings even more trouble.

Fleeing or Eluding Law Enforcement

When police try to stop a driver, that driver must pull over. If the driver speeds off or refuses to stop, the charge is fleeing or attempting to elude. This is a major violation. It often leads to arrest. It can lead to a felony charge if the driver breaks other laws during the chase. The penalties can include prison, fines, and permanent license loss.

Major Violations Affect More Than Just Driving

Major traffic violations in Georgia are not just about fines or court dates. They affect jobs. They affect family. They raise insurance costs. They stay on records. A single serious charge can follow someone for years. That is why the law comes down so hard. It wants drivers to understand what is at risk.

Know What Counts Before It’s Too Late

Understanding what is considered a major traffic violation in Georgia is the first step to staying safe and staying legal. Once charged, the clock starts ticking. Each case moves fast. Some drivers think they can explain it away. But without help, the court rarely listens. The law looks at facts, not excuses.

Charged with a major traffic violation? Don’t face it alone. Call Kimbrel Law Firm at 770-349-9219 knows how to fight serious traffic charges and protect your future. Get help before it gets worse.