Traffic Violations in Georgia

Criminal Defense

Traffic Violations in Georgia

Getting pulled over and seeing those flashing blue lights can be a nerve-wracking experience. Whether it’s for speeding, failing to stop at a stop sign, aggressive driving, or distracted driving, receiving a ticket is never pleasant. But it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. At Downie Law, LLC, I, Jack M. Downie Sr., have over a decade of experience in criminal defense, including traffic violations. I’m here to help you navigate the legal process and work towards the best possible outcome for your case. Contact me today for a free case evaluation.

Common Traffic Violations in Georgia

There are various traffic violations that Georgia drivers may encounter, including:

• Aggressive Driving: This can include behaviors like weaving through traffic, flashing headlights, or passing in a no-passing zone.
• Distracted Driving/Texting: Under Georgia’s Hands-Free Law, which took effect in 2019, drivers are prohibited from using their phones while driving unless they have a hands-free device.
• Driving in the Gore: The gore is the area between a highway lane and an exit ramp. Crossing the gore is a traffic offense in Georgia.
• Driving Too Fast for Conditions: This charge is subjective and can occur in various conditions like rain or fog. I can help you contest this type of charge.
• Failure to Maintain Lane: This violation often occurs during accidents or DUI incidents when a driver touches the center or right lane line without signaling.
• Failure to Obey a Traffic Control Device: One of the most common traffic violations, this offense can result in 3 points on your license if convicted.
• Failure to Stop at a Stop Sign: Known as a “rolling stop,” this is a prevalent offense that can result in points on your license and impact your driving record.
• Failure to Yield Right of Way: Failing to yield can result in accidents and tickets, especially involving pedestrians, other vehicles, or bicyclists.
• Fleeing or Attempting to Elude: Fleeing from a police officer is a serious offense in Georgia, with severe consequences.
• Following Too Closely: Commonly associated with rear-end collisions, this offense is judged based on whether you were a reasonable distance from the car in front of you.
• Georgia CDL Violations: Traffic violations or DUIs can put your CDL at risk. It’s crucial to contact me if you have a CDL and are charged with any offense.
• License Suspension Offenses: Certain traffic violations can result in an automatic suspension of your Georgia driver’s license. Even minor offenses can jeopardize your driving privileges.
• Headlight Requirements: Complying with headlight laws is essential, both for legal reasons and for your safety.
• Hit and Run: This is a serious charge in Georgia with harsh consequences if convicted.
• Illegal Passing of an Emergency Vehicle: Known as the Spencer Pass Law, this offense occurs when drivers fail to move over for emergency vehicles.
• Illegal U-Turn: Some areas prohibit U-turns even without a sign, so it’s important to be aware of these restrictions.
• Impeding the Flow of Traffic: Also called the “slow poke law,” this offense targets drivers who drive too slowly in the left lane, causing congestion.
• Racing: Racing is distinct from speeding and carries different, often more severe, penalties.
• Reckless Driving: This serious offense is often associated with DUI or speeding charges and can involve behaviors like weaving or failing to stop at signs.
• Speeding: One of the most common traffic violations, speeding tickets can have significant consequences.
• Super Speeder: A Super Speeder violation adds a $200 fine to your ticket, which must be paid to the Department of Driver Services.
• Suspended License: Driving on a suspended license can add six months to your suspension period, creating a difficult cycle to break.
• Unlawful Passing of a School Bus: Georgia law requires drivers to stop when a school bus is stopped with flashing lights and an extended stop arm. Violating this law is severely punished.
• What to Do When Pulled Over: Knowing how to handle a traffic stop can make the experience smoother and less stressful.

Penalties for Traffic Violations in Georgia

Penalties for traffic violations in Georgia can vary widely depending on the nature of the offense and the county where you were ticketed. Consequences may include fines, probation, victim panels, drug tests, or community service. Given the broad range of potential penalties, it’s crucial to have a knowledgeable Georgia Traffic Violation Attorney on your side.

How a Georgia Traffic Violation Attorney Can Help

Having an experienced Georgia Traffic Ticket Lawyer can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case. I can negotiate with the prosecutor to potentially reduce the points on your license or lower the severity of the charge. If you have a clean driving record, I can use that as leverage to secure a more favorable outcome.

Contact Downie Law, LLC

With over a decade of experience practicing law throughout Georgia, I understand how to navigate the complexities of traffic violations. Don’t handle it on your own. I’m available to assist you anytime—even nights and weekends—because your case matters. Contact me today at (912) 537-9265 or jack@downielaw.net to schedule a free case evaluation.