Are there special circumstances that allow you to drive on a suspended license, or will you be penalized if caught? Here’s what you need to know about license suspension and what can happen if you’re found driving on a suspended license.
What Is License Suspension?
A license suspension is the withdrawal of your driving privileges for a temporary period. This differs from license revocation, where driving privileges are terminated. In some instances, a person’s driver’s license may be permanently revoked. For example, if an individual is charged with multiple DUIs, their license may be suspended for several years or permanently.
Mandatory License Suspension with Specific Crimes
Some crimes in Georgia result in automatic or mandatory license suspension. These include:
- Committing a felony with a motor vehicle
- Fraudulently applying for a driver’s license
- Racing illegally on public roads
- Hit and run or leaving the scene of an accident
- Fleeing a police officer in a motor vehicle
- Driving a car with a suspended or revoked driver’s license
- Forging an identification document
- Refusing a chemical test after a DUI stop
Your license may also be suspended if you fail to appear in court, violate the Georgia Substance Control Act, or a DUI conviction.
Penalties for Driving on a Suspended License
If you’re caught driving on a suspended license in Atlanta, you face serious penalties. For a first offense, you face up to a $500 fine and up to two days in jail. Your license suspension will also be extended for an additional six months beyond the initial suspension period. For subsequent offenses within a five-year period, you face a fine of up to $2,500 fine but not less than $1,000 and up to 10 days in jail.
Are There Special Circumstances?
You may be wondering if exceptions will be made for things like work or doctor’s appointments. Unless you have been granted a hardship license that grants you driving privileges and specifies the times you are allowed to drive legally, you can be charged with driving on a suspended license, even if you were driving to work or for an emergency.
When to Contact an Atlanta GA Traffic Ticket Lawyer
If you were charged with driving on a suspended license, don’t wait to contact an Atlanta GA traffic tickets attorney. At the Kimbrel Law Firm, we can help. Call us today for a consultation to discuss your case at (770) 349-9219.