Georgia Traffic Violations That Could Result in a License Suspension

License suspensions are a common punishment for DUI convictions as well as for drivers who have been convicted of multiple traffic offenses. However, many people are unaware that there are several traffic violations that can automatically result in a suspended driver's license upon conviction besides DUI.

Some of these offenses include:

• Homicide by Vehicle
• Serious Injury by Vehicle
• Racing
• Fleeing or Attempting to Elude
• DUI Child Endangerment
• No Proof of Insurance
• Driving on a Suspended License
• Hit and Run
• DUI
• Habitual Violator
• Operating a Vehicle with Revoked, Cancelled, or Suspended Registration
• Reckless Stunt Driving
• Conviction for Any Felony Involving the Use of a Motor Vehicle

The duration of the license suspension can vary, ranging from 60 days to several years. In addition to the license suspension, there are other consequences to consider, such as potential jail time, fines, community service, probation, and the installation of an ignition interlock device, all contingent on the conviction.

For drivers aged 18 or older, accumulating more than 15 points within a 24-month period can also lead to a license suspension. So, even if you haven't been charged with one of the previously mentioned offenses, multiple traffic convictions can still result in a license suspension.

If you or a loved one are facing charges for any of the aforementioned offenses, it's crucial to understand that the license suspension is just one aspect to be concerned about. We recommend contacting one of our experienced Georgia Traffic Violation Lawyers for a free case evaluation.

For Drivers Under 21 Years of Age

Younger drivers in Georgia face strict penalties, with an automatic 6-month license suspension for convictions related to offenses such as hit and run, racing, fleeing or attempting to elude, reckless driving, unlawful passing of a school bus, improper passing on a hill or curve, exceeding the speed limit by 24 miles per hour or more, driving under the influence, aggressive driving, reckless stunt driving, and any offense worth 4 points or more. If you or a loved one under 21 is charged with any of these Georgia Traffic Violations, it's imperative to contact our experienced team of Traffic Ticket Attorneys in Georgia for assistance.

For Drivers Aged 18 to 20

Drivers in Georgia aged 18 to 20 face somewhat less severe penalties, with the allowance of accumulating 15 points within a 24-month period before a license suspension occurs. However, a license suspension will be triggered if convicted of any single traffic offense worth 4 or more points.

For Drivers Under 18 Years of Age

Drivers under 18 years old in Georgia face a different set of rules. Their driver's license will be suspended if they accumulate 4 points in any consecutive 12-month period. This suspension period is typically 6 months, with no early reinstatement or limited permit allowed. To reinstate their license, the driver must complete a Defensive Driving class, retake the Georgia driver's exam, and pay a fee at the end of the 6-month suspension period.

In the case of under-18 drivers, there are several ways their license can be automatically suspended:

• Conviction of speeding between 15-18 miles over the speed limit, along with failure to maintain lane, leading to a 5-point total.
  
• Speeding over 15 mph over the speed limit and passing in a no-pass zone, resulting in a license suspension.
  
• Conviction of reckless driving, an offense worth 4 points.
  

Regardless of the circumstances, our experienced Georgia DUI and Traffic Ticket Lawyers are available to provide guidance and defense strategies to help you avoid a license suspension. Do not plead guilty without exploring your options—there are often effective defenses available for your case.

License Suspension and DUI Charges in Georgia

If you've been arrested for DUI in Georgia, it is crucial to consult with an experienced Georgia DUI Attorney to protect your license. In addition to a standard license suspension upon DUI conviction, failing to request an ALS (Administrative License Suspension) hearing within 30 days can result in license suspension. The State of Georgia charges $150 to file for this hearing, and it must be requested by your DUI Lawyer in Georgia—it does not happen automatically. If the hearing is not requested, or if the interlock device is not installed, your Georgia Driver's License or driving privilege in Georgia will be suspended.

Using a Nolo Plea to Avoid a License Suspension

A nolo contendere plea (or no contest plea) can be a valuable tool when facing certain offenses in Georgia. When used appropriately, nolo pleas can help individuals avoid receiving points on their license. It's important to note that a nolo plea can only be used to prevent points for a moving violation once every 5 years, and its acceptance is at the judge's discretion. However, a nolo plea will still be reported to the Department of Driver Services (DDS) and may impact insurance premiums. Furthermore, it does not result in a reduced punishment.

Nolo pleas can also be used to avoid a license suspension for specific offenses once every 5 years, including:

• No insurance
• Driving on a suspended license
• Driving with suspended registration

However, if you've already used one nolo plea within the past 5 years and choose to plead nolo again, DDS will consider it a guilty plea, and points will be assessed on your license. While nolo pleas have their advantages, experienced DUI Lawyers in Georgia can often provide alternative options.

Zero Point Orders

An alternative option to consider is a zero point order, which your Traffic Ticket Laywer in Georgia can discuss with you. A zero point order can result in zero points being assessed for a traffic offense. To request a zero point order, you must have completed a DDS-certified defensive driving course after receiving the citation and submit proof to the court when entering your plea. If granted, a zero-point order reduces the base fine for the offense by 20%. Although the offense will still appear on your driving history, no points will be assessed. Note that a zero-point order cannot be used to avoid suspension for drivers under 21 convicted of a 4 or more point offense.

In conclusion, when facing a license suspension in Georgia, you have various options to explore with the assistance of your Georgia Traffic Ticket Lawyer. Points are assigned based on the specific traffic violation, so attending court and negotiating a reduced charge can be advantageous. Never assume there are no alternatives—contact our office for a free evaluation, as it may save your license.

Contact Us Today

Facing a traffic offense charge in Georgia can be daunting, but our team of Georgia Traffic Offense Lawyers at Lawson and Berry has over 25 years of experience defending Georgia drivers. We are well-versed in Georgia law and know how to work within the legal system to protect your interests. Our offices are open 24/7 to answer your calls because we understand that questions may arise outside regular business hours. Don't hesitate to call for a free, no-obligation case evaluation.