Somerset Traffic Lawyer
Driving mistakes happen, especially when you’re on the road in a rural county with a big city highway like Somerset County, Maryland. A Somerset traffic lawyer can help if you find yourself facing traffic-related criminal charges in Somerset.
A defense attorney in Somerset can advise you and advocate for you, keeping you informed along the way and presenting your case to the judge in a favorable manner in an effort to get any charges against you reduced or dropped.
Working with a Traffic Attorney
If you’re ready to sit down and talk about your case, then the criminal defense attorneys at our firm can listen. They can also handle your case from start to finish, giving you the know-how and help you need to get back on the road and back on track.
The Somerset traffic attorneys at our firm understand how to defend individuals on traffic charges based on a number of factors. For example, it may be possible to question the accuracy of speed readings taken by radar guns based on operator error or incorrect calibration. To learn about other potential defenses, call a traffic lawyer with our firm today.
Traffic Laws in Maryland: The Rules of The Road
The rules of the road include but go beyond buckling your seatbelt and signaling every time you get ready to make a turn or U-turn or even just switch lanes. As seen in Maryland’s transportation statutes, traffic laws in Maryland also govern the following:
- Running a red light
- Reckless driving
- Hit and runs
- Traffic tickets
- Speeding
- Driver’s licenses
- Driver’s insurance
- Driver’s registration
Drivers have many rules to follow in order to keep themselves and everyone else safe. Failing to do so can lead to serious consequences in the eyes of the law and society.
Traffic-Related Criminal Charges and Penalties in Somerset County
There are many charges associated with violating traffic laws in Somerset county, and their penalties range from minor to severe. According to Maryland’s Transportation Code Section 27-101, violating traffic laws in Somerset County can be anything from a civil penalty to a misdemeanor to a felony.
Some misdemeanors are punishable by a maximum fine of $500. However, the following violations are punishable by a maximum fine of $500 and/or at most two months in jail:
- False identification on driver’s license or license plate
- Driving with a suspended license
- Driving a car without permission from the car’s owner
- Failing to remain at the scene of an accident where a vehicle or property was damaged
- Getting into an accident with a pedestrian where he or she had the right of way in a crosswalk
Changing an odometer is punishable by a maximum fine of $500 and/or at most six months incarceration. Overtaking and passing a school vehicle and reckless driving are both punishable by a maximum fine of $1,000.
Driving with a suspended or otherwise invalid license is punishable by a maximum fine of $1,000 and/or a maximum term of one year in prison on the first offense. Subsequent offenses are punishable by a maximum fine of $1,000 and/or a maximum term of two years in prison making it imperative a Somerset traffic lawyer is contacted as soon as possible.
The court may also punish certain alcohol-related traffic violations such as a DUI (driving under the influence) or DWI (driving while intoxicated) by requiring a comprehensive clinical assessment for alcohol abuse. Placement in a certified, court-approved alcohol program may follow should the assessment recommend it.
Call a Traffic Lawyer in Somerset Today
It can be scary when you realize that a seemingly minor driving mistake could result in a permanent criminal record. Fortunately, with the help of a skilled Somerset traffic lawyer, you can fight to avoid serious penalties. Call our firm today to set up your free consultation and speak with our friendly legal team.
