Major Traffic Violations to Avoid in Atlanta

Traffic violations in Atlanta can come with serious legal consequences. There are several traffic violations and it is best to avoid them to prevent fines, points on your license, and other legal repercussions.

Below are the major categories of traffic violations in Atlanta.

Categories of Traffic Violations in Atlanta

Most states categorize driving violations into one of three categories based on the severity of their penalties, namely infractions/petty offenses, misdemeanors, and felonies.

1. Petty Offenses

Petty offenses also referred to as infractions, involve breaking administrative rules, ordinances, municipal codes, and, in many cases, traffic laws. Most states do not treat minor infractions as crimes. Hence convictions for minor infractions result only in fines and never in jail.

2. Misdemeanors

Misdemeanors are non-indictable criminal offenses. Misdemeanors in Atlanta can either be simple misdemeanors or high, aggravating offenses. Most traffic violations in Atlanta are misdemeanors, which carry the same punishments as other misdemeanors unrelated to driving or traffic, and a point system that could result in the suspension of a driver’s license. Of course, many traffic infractions only result in fines and points rather than imprisonment.

3. Felonies

Felonies are indictable offenses that are more serious than misdemeanors because they typically include violence. Penalties for felonies can be severe, including more than one year in jail, fines exceeding $1,000, community service, probation, or other punishment the sentencing court deems appropriate and appropriate.

The following are some of the severe driving violations to avoid in Atlanta specifically under the three listed categories above;

1. Driving under the influence (DUI)

Driving while intoxicated is a serious misdemeanor in Atlanta that carries harsh penalties, such as fines, license suspensions, and possibly jail time.

2. Overspeeding

Overspeeding is a frequent traffic violation in Atlanta with heavy fines and points on your license. Moreover, speeding can raise the chance of getting into an accident.

3. Reckless Driving

In Atlanta, reckless driving, which includes practices like excessive speeding, tailgating, and aggressive driving, is a significant infraction. Driving carelessly can result in fines, points on your license, and even jail time.

4. Failure to Yield

A traffic offense that increases the risk of collisions and injury is failing to give way to other vehicles or pedestrians. Punishments for infractions include fines and points on a driver’s license.

Rounding Up

In conclusion, it is essential to drive cautiously to avoid traffic infractions and associated legal repercussions. Consult an experienced traffic attorney if you have questions about traffic law or violations.