Traffic Violation Lawyers Near Grand Rapids

Traffic Violation Lawyers Near Grand Rapids

A traffic violation is a non-criminal violation that involves situations and actions involving a person’s vehicle. Contrary to what many people think, traffic violations are not criminal offenses. For example, operating a motor vehicle while intoxicated (OWI) is a criminal traffic offense, while speeding is usually not. 

Traffic violations are also known as traffic infractions, traffic citations, and traffic tickets. Regardless of the name they go by, these violations of the law usually involve a moving vehicle that has the potential to cause injury or harm to others. To avoid the harsh consequences associated with these violations, it is important to work with traffic violation lawyers near Grand Rapids.

Common Traffic Violations in Michigan

Any time a person breaks the law while using their vehicle, particularly if it is moving at the time, they may be charged with a traffic violation. The most common traffic violations in Grand Rapids, and throughout Michigan, include:

• Speeding
• Reckless driving
• Failure to control
• Disobeying traffic control devices
• Failure to comply
• Assured clear distance accident (ACDA)
• Tailgating
• Changing lanes without safety signals
• Mechanical violations
• Seatbelt violations
• Illegal U-turns

Penalties for Traffic Violations in Grand Rapids

Although traffic violations may not seem as serious as criminal offenses, the penalties for those found guilty are still harsh. A person may have points added to their driver’s license, their insurance rates may increase, and some individuals may even be ordered to complete a driver’s education program. In severe instances, a person may lose their driver’s license temporarily or permanently.

Your Rights During a Traffic Stop

Being stopped by law enforcement while in your vehicle always has the potential to be scary. However, it is important to know that you still have rights. A traffic violation lawyer near Grand Rapids will ensure those rights are upheld so you are protected.

First and foremost, it is important to know that police officers cannot stop you while in your vehicle without a valid reason. They must have reasonable suspicion that you committed a civil infraction, misdemeanor, or felony. Once you have been pulled over, law enforcement also cannot detain you for an indefinite period of time. Still, they can hold you for an extended period of time if they find other evidence of wrongdoing. Generally speaking, without any such evidence, a traffic stop should take no more than 30 minutes.

It is also important to remember that during a traffic stop, you do not have to consent to a search of your vehicle. If you agree, you then cannot use a search as part of your defense strategy because consent makes the search legal. Lastly, while you should cooperate with the police officer as much as possible, you should also say as little as possible, particularly if an answer will incriminate you.

Our Grand Rapids Traffic Violation Lawyers Can Provide the Defense You Need

Being charged with a traffic violation is not always the minor issue many people think. If you have been charged, our traffic violation lawyers near Grand Rapids are here to help. At Van Den Heuvel Law Office, we know innocent people are charged every day, but we also know how to prepare the necessary defense. Call us today or contact us online to schedule a consultation and to learn more.