What Is Considered a Criminal Traffic Offense in Florida?
Not every traffic violation is a criminal offense. While many traffic citations involve civil penalties such as fines or points against your driver’s license, certain traffic-related offenses may result in criminal charges carrying much more serious consequences.
Depending on the circumstances, a criminal traffic conviction may result in jail or prison time, probation, substantial fines, the suspension or revocation of your driver’s license, and a permanent criminal record.
What Makes a Traffic Offense Criminal?
Criminal traffic offenses generally involve conduct that Florida law considers more serious than ordinary moving violations.
Unlike civil traffic infractions, criminal traffic offenses typically require a court appearance and may result in criminal penalties if a conviction is obtained.
The specific charge depends upon the facts surrounding the incident and the applicable Florida law.
Common Criminal Traffic Offenses
Criminal traffic offenses may include allegations involving:
- Driving While License Suspended or Revoked (DWLS)
- Reckless Driving
- Leaving the Scene of an Accident (Hit and Run)
- Fleeing or Attempting to Elude Law Enforcement
- Vehicular Manslaughter
- Vehicular Homicide
- Racing on Highways
- Making a False Accident Report
- Other criminal traffic offenses under Florida law
Each offense has its own legal elements and potential penalties.
Are Criminal Traffic Offenses Always Felonies?
No.
Some criminal traffic offenses are charged as misdemeanors, while others may be prosecuted as felonies depending upon the circumstances.
Factors such as serious bodily injury, death, prior criminal history, or other aggravating circumstances may affect the severity of the charges.
Every case should be evaluated individually.
Can My Driver’s License Be Suspended?
Yes.
Depending on the offense and the outcome of the case, a criminal traffic conviction may result in the suspension or revocation of your driving privileges.
In some situations, individuals may qualify to apply for a hardship license, depending upon the reason for the suspension and the applicable Florida licensing requirements.
Every Criminal Traffic Case Is Different
No two criminal traffic cases are exactly alike.
The available evidence, driving history, witness statements, accident reports, and the circumstances surrounding the incident all play an important role in determining the charges and the potential outcome of the case.
Understanding the allegations and your legal options is an important first step.
Work Directly With Attorney Ron Baum
If you are facing criminal charges or have questions about your legal rights, obtaining experienced legal guidance early can make an important difference.
For more than 30 years, Attorney Ron Baum has worked directly with clients throughout Broward County, explaining the legal process, carefully reviewing the facts of each case, and developing a defense strategy based on each client’s individual circumstances.
Attorney Ron Baum offers free consultations and is available to discuss your case, answer your questions, and explain your legal options.
FREE CONSULTATION
Being arrested or charged with a crime can be overwhelming. Understanding your options early can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case.