As attorneys experienced in traffic violations, we have seen firsthand how even minor infractions can significantly impact people’s lives. In Massachusetts, traffic violations are not just about paying fines; they can lead to points on your driving record, increased insurance premiums, and sometimes, the suspension or rescission of your driver’s license. Understanding your rights and options is important when facing a traffic-related issue.
Common Traffic Violations
At Reeves Lavallee PC, we represent clients across Worcester County dealing with a variety of traffic violations, including:
- Speeding Tickets: These are among the most common violations, but they’re not always as straightforward as they seem. Challenging a speeding ticket could save you from fines and prevent points on your driving record.
- Suspended or Rescinded Licenses: Losing your license can disrupt your daily life, mainly if you rely on driving for work or family obligations. We can help you navigate the legal process to restore your driving privileges.
- General Traffic Tickets: From running a stop sign to improper lane changes, general traffic violations can add up quickly. Let us help protect your driving record and keep you on the road.
Why Traffic Tickets Should Not Be Ignored
In Massachusetts, traffic violations are considered “surchargeable events,” adding points to your driving record. Accumulating too many points within a set period can lead to license suspension. Additionally, unpaid fines can escalate into serious legal issues, including potential warrants. Addressing tickets promptly with the help of an experienced attorney is essential to avoid these complications.
The Benefits of Hiring a Traffic Violations Attorney
Many people assume paying a ticket is the simplest solution, but this often isn’t the best option. As your attorney, we can:
- Review the details of your case to identify possible defenses.
- Represent you in court or on appeal to contest the violation.
- Work to reduce fines and penalties.
- By doing these things, we can help you avoid points on your driving record, which can keep your insurance rates from skyrocketing.
Massachusetts Traffic Laws: What You Need to Know
Massachusetts operates under strict traffic laws designed to promote road safety, but they can be complex and challenging to navigate without professional guidance. For example, did you know that:
- Could a speeding ticket result in both a fine and a surchargeable event?
- Accumulating three surchargeable events in two years may require you to take a Driver Retraining Course.
- Certain violations can result in an automatic suspension of your license.
These potential results underscore the importance of handling traffic violations strategically.
Personalized Case Assessments
At Reeves Lavallee PC, we believe that every case is unique. During your initial consultation, we will:
- Evaluate the specifics of your traffic violation.
- Explain potential outcomes and strategies for your case.
- Develop a personalized plan to achieve the best possible results.
Protect Your Driving Record Today
If you have received a traffic ticket or other vehicular violation or are dealing with a suspended or rescinded license, you do not have to face it alone. With the right legal representation, you can minimize the impact on your driving record and protect your future.
Contact Reeves Lavallee PC today at 508–425–6945 or visit us at www.reeveslavallee.com to schedule a consultation. Let us help you get back on the road with confidence.
Traffic violations may feel like a minor inconvenience, but their consequences can ripple into many areas of your life. As your attorneys, it will be our goal to provide you with the guidance and representation you need to move forward.
- Commonwealth v. Santana, 420 Mass. 205 (1995): The Supreme Judicial Court held that police officers may stop a vehicle for an observed traffic violation, even if the stop serves as a pretext to investigate other crimes. This decision underscores that the legality of a traffic stop is based on the officer’s observation of a traffic infraction, regardless of any underlying motives.
- Commonwealth v. Larose, 483 Mass. 323 (2019): There, the court determined that crossing the “fog line”—the white line marking the right side of the road—without first ascertaining that such movement can be made safely, constitutes a marked lanes violation under Massachusetts law. This ruling emphasizes the importance of maintaining proper lane discipline to ensure road safety and the liability one might face for failing to do so.
These cases illustrate a minor sampling of the complexities of traffic law enforcement in Massachusetts and the evolving judicial standards that aim to balance effective policing with protecting individual rights.