Navigating the complexities of Georgia traffic laws can be daunting, especially for drivers under 21. Understanding the consequences of traffic violations and knowing how to protect your driving record is crucial. This guide provides an in-depth look at traffic offenses for driver under 21 years of age, the associated points, license suspension risks, and the importance of hiring a Georgia traffic attorney.
Understanding Traffic Violations and Points for Georgia Drivers Under 21
Traffic violations in Georgia are associated with points, which accumulate on your driving record. For drivers under 21, accumulating four or more points results in an automatic license suspension. Here are some of the common violations that can lead to such consequences.
Four-Point Offenses Leading to License Suspension
Unlawfully Passing a School Bus (Ga. Code Ann. § 40-6-163)
Passing a school bus that has activated its stop signal is a serious offense. For drivers under 21, a conviction results in six points on your license, a misdemeanor record, a fine of up to $1,000, and an automatic license suspension.
Improper Passing on a Curve or Hill (Ga. Code Ann. § 40-6-45)
Improperly passing another vehicle on a curve or hill can result in four points on your license. For drivers under 21, this offense leads to a suspended license and a fine.
Exceeding the Speed Limit by 24 mph or More (Ga. Code Ann. § 40-6-181)
Speeding excessively, specifically exceeding the posted speed limit by 24 mph or more, is another serious offense. A conviction adds four points to your license and results in a suspension for drivers under 21, along with a fine.
Aggressive Driving (Ga. Code Ann. § 40-6-397)
Aggressive driving is characterized by operating a vehicle with the intent to annoy, injure, intimidate, or harass another person. This violation adds six points to your license, leads to an automatic suspension for drivers under 21, and includes a fine.
Reckless Driving (Ga. Code Ann. § 40-6-390)
Reckless driving is another severe offense that results in four points on your license. For drivers under 21, this leads to an automatic suspension and a fine.
Suspension Periods for Drivers Under 21
The suspension period for a first-time offense resulting in four or more points is a minimum of six months. For a second offense, the suspension extends to 12 months.
Offenses Leading to Suspension at Any Age
Certain offenses lead to an automatic suspension regardless of age. These include:
- Leaving an Accident Scene (Ga. Code Ann. § 40-6-270): Failing to remain at an accident scene can lead to license suspension, a misdemeanor or felony charge, and severe penalties.
- Street or Highway Racing (Ga. Code Ann. § 40-6-186): Participating in street racing results in license suspension and misdemeanor charges with fines up to $1,000.
- Fleeing or Eluding Police (Ga. Code Ann. § 40-6-395): Evading police results in license suspension, an aggravated misdemeanor, jail time, and substantial fines. Serious cases can lead to felony charges.
- Driving Under the Influence (Ga. Code Ann. § 40-6-391): DUI convictions for drivers under 21, with a BAC of 0.02% or higher, result in license suspension, a misdemeanor record, fines, jail time, and other penalties.
- Driving Without Insurance (Ga. Code Ann. § 40-6-10): Driving without valid insurance leads to license suspension, a misdemeanor record, fines, and possible jail time.
Automatic License Suspension for Serious Violations
Several serious violations result in automatic license suspension for all drivers, regardless of age. These include:
- Vehicular homicide
- Vehicular feticide
- Serious injury by vehicle
- Driving with a suspended or revoked license
- Driving with a suspended or revoked registration
- CDL drivers refusing to weigh
The Importance of Hiring a Georgia Traffic Attorney for Drivers Under 21
Many young drivers mistakenly believe they have no choice but to accept the penalties for traffic tickets. However, with the assistance of an experienced Georgia traffic lawyer, you can explore legal options to potentially mitigate the consequences.
Benefits of Legal Representation
Protecting Your Driving Record
An attorney with vast experience in traffic law understands the intricacies of Georgia’s legal system and can help you navigate it effectively. They work to resolve your ticket in a way that avoids license suspension and minimizes points on your record.
Understanding the Consequences
Pleading guilty or paying a fine without fully understanding the repercussions can lead to severe consequences, including increased insurance rates and long-term impacts on your driving record. A traffic lawyer ensures you are fully informed of all potential outcomes.
Exploring Legal Options
An experienced traffic attorney can review your case, identify any legal defenses, and negotiate with prosecutors. They can help reduce charges, dismiss points, or even get the ticket dismissed entirely in some cases.
Talk to a Georgia lawyer that handles tickets for drivers under 21
Many young drivers incorrectly assume that they must accept the consequences of traffic tickets without legal options. Ticket defense in Georgia’s traffic courts is possible with the help of an experienced traffic attorney. Never agree to just automatically enter a guilty plea for traffic offenses. An experienced Georgia attorney for drivers under the age of 21 can review your case and explain your legal options. Contact us today, 404-315-9936, to request a free consultation.
For Georgia drivers under 21, understanding traffic laws and the consequences of violations is crucial. Accumulating four or more points on your license can result in an automatic suspension, significantly impacting your driving privileges. Hiring an experienced Georgia traffic lawyer can help protect your record and navigate the legal system effectively. Don’t face traffic violations alone – seek professional legal assistance to safeguard your future.
