Driving Offenses and the Costs They Carry

While driving, many people might think that they can make exceptions as long as they don’t get caught. However, you never know when you might get caught during an infraction and it’s important that you’re aware of the impacts. Driving offenses can be quite costly and have far-reaching consequences.

Speeding and Reckless Driving

Some of the most common driving offenses are speeding and reckless driving. The consequences of speeding and reckless driving vary by situation. However, it is very likely that any level of infraction will come along with a steep fine. These fines fluctuate depending on how far over the speed limit you were going. Severe cases may even require that you attend traffic school and you can even have your license suspended. Not to mention, your insurance premiums will increase with every infraction. In the case of reckless driving, you may face more serious consequences. Counts of reckless driving can go on your permanent record. You can also be sentenced to community service or even jail time.

Driving Under the Influence

Driving under the influence is when you operate a vehicle while your blood alcohol limit is above the legal limit. Similar to speeding and reckless driving, you are likely to be fined and may possibly serve time in jail. You could also end up with other serious consequences in your life. However, the biggest consequence is receiving a DUI. Your first offense is more lenient but still serious. In many states, it results in a fine close to $3000 or you may spend 18 months in jail. In some cases, you may be faced with both. Other states may only charge you with 6 months in jail. There are other consequences of a DUI outside of the law as well. Your driving will be limited, you may be placed on probation, and you may need to attend rehabilitation classes. It’s also possible to lose your job or strain your relationships.

Traffic Violations

They may seem small, but traffic violations have serious consequences. These violations include anything from not yielding at a stop sign to tailgating to using your cell phone. In most cases you will receive a fine and these can range from $100 to $500. Some states also have a point system in place. These points are associated with specific violations and as you accumulate more points you can face the loss of your license or be required to take a driving course. As with other driving offenses, you face the increase of insurance premiums and even the possibility of jail time depending on the state and the offense.

As you’re driving, make sure you practice safety and caution. Don’t take chances just because you think you can get away with it. The consequences of driving offenses can severely impact your life and it’s better to not take the risk.

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