LICENSE SUSPENSION
Many people think of traffic tickets are a minor nuisance but they can have serious consequences. By simply paying your traffic tickets, you can accumulate enough points to get a suspended license. Driving on a suspended license is one of those things that can have a snowball effect on your record without you even realizing it.
It could very easily lead to a felony arrest that could land you in jail or prison. For example, if you have been cited three times in five years for driving with a suspended, canceled or revoked license, you will lose your license for five years as an habitual offender.
What you need to know:
Driving While Your License is Suspended or Revoked (DWLSR) has two categories:
I. DWLSR With Knowledge – Driving a vehicle with knowledge of the suspension or revocation of your license can result in your arrest and possible jail time.
II. DWLSR Without Knowledge –Driving a vehicle without knowledge of a suspension or revocation is a civil infraction that results in a traffic ticket (no jail time).
The Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (DHSMV) will mail any notice of a suspension to the address on your driver’s license. It will not be forwarded to any other address, so it is critical to keep your address updated with the DMV. If the DHSMV deems you a habitual traffic offender, your driver’s license shall be suspended for 5 years. After 12 months, you or your attorney may petition the Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles for reinstatement on a restricted basis (work permit and / or employment purpose license).
III. Habitual Traffic Offender Status: The DHSMV will designate you as a habitual traffic offender if you accumulate the following offenses within five years:
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Three or more convictions of any one or more of the following arising out of separate acts;
Voluntary or involuntary manslaughter resulting from the operation of a motor vehicle.
Driving Under the Influence.
Any felony conviction in which a vehicle was used.
Driving a motor vehicle while your license is suspended or revoked.
Failure to render aid in the event of a motor vehicle crash resulting in the death or personal injury of another.
Fifteen convictions for moving traffic violations for which points may be assessed will also make you a habitual offender.
Please call me for a free consultation so we can review your individual case and I can explain your options to you. I will strive to keep you on the road with a valid license.