Understanding the Traffic Violation Codes in Pennsylvania
To improve road safety from dangerous drivers, Pennsylvania has a unique point system. The point system hits drivers hard in their wallets with other penalties that can cause you to lose your license. What should you do if you end up with too many speeding tickets? Should you hire an attorney? Here are some things you need to know about violating the Pennsylvania traffic laws.
Under 18 Drivers
New drivers under the age of 18 can often end up with an excessive amount of speeding tickets. If a driver under 18 accumulates six points, or exceeds the speed limit by at least 26 mph, he or she can face a 90-day license suspension. Additional offenses can cause you to lose your license for 120 days.
First-Time Offender
The first time you surpass the six-point mark, you will be required to pass a written exam. Failure to pass this test can cost you your license until you actually pass the test.
Second-Time Offender
If you are a second-time offender, you will be required to attend a hearing with PennDOT at one of their driver’s service centers. Failure to appear will cause you to lose your license for 60 days.
Third-Time Offender
Anyone that exceeds six points for a third time will be required to attend a mandatory PennDOT hearing. The examiner will review your record and will determine whether or not your license should be suspended. Failure to appear will cause an immediate suspension of your license.
Excessive Speeding
Pennsylvania traffic codes are strict as PennDOT is cracking down on people who are a danger to those around them. If you violate these codes and are faced with a hearing, you need to consult with a traffic violation attorney in Pittsburgh. Failure to attend a hearing can leave you with a suspended license for several months. The hearing will consist of a Department examiner who will closely look at your case and determine a fair suspension. They will determine if you can attend training classes or other remedial measures to show good behavior and, thereafter, have the suspension or points removed from your driving record.
11 Points or more
If you are caught with a higher number of speeding ticket points, you are in a difficult situation. According to PA traffic violation codes, you are subject to the following rules:
1st suspension – 5 days for each 1 point
2nd suspension – 10 days per every 1 point
3rd suspension – 15 days per every 1 point
4th suspension or additional suspensions – 1 year
Talk to your traffic violation attorney in Pittsburgh to determine the best route for you. The duration of your license suspension will be based on past suspensions. Your attorney can assist you and may be able to reduce your points, as well as work with PennDOT for a lighter suspension.
Going without your license for a year or longer can wreak havoc on your life. Meet with a skilled attorney who can help you prevent your life from coming to a screeching halt. Whenever you are pulled over for a traffic violation, you are entitled to certain rights. Make sure these rights are being protected and team up with one of the skilled traffic violation attorneys of Allegheny Attorneys at Law. At AAAL, our team will work alongside you to help you understand your rights and limit the potential damages from your case. Call us today for a free, 30-minute initial consultation at 412.426.3321.