Traffic violations are one of the most common legal issues Americans face, and most drivers will receive a ticket at least once in their lifetime. While it may not seem as significant as other crimes, every citation reflects on your driving record. Multiple infractions and serious moving violations can take a toll on your personal and professional life. As such, it’s often in your best interest to hire an attorney to help fight the charges. Here are some of the ways a poor DMV record can impact your future.

5 Areas of Life That Traffic Violations Can Affect 

1. Insurance Premiums 

Car insurance companies look at a person’s driving history when calculating coverage costs. The more moving violations you have on record, the higher the premiums. Providers will deem you a high-risk motorist after incurring serious traffic charges, such as reckless driving or DUI.

2. Civil Rights 

If convicted of traffic charges that involve a fatality, the offense might be categorized as a felony. The same is true for multiple DUIs on a record. Though laws vary by state, convicted felons can lose their right to vote, serve on a jury, hold public office, be admitted into foreign countries, and receive financial aid for educational purposes. 

3. Adoption

The adoption process can be challenging and has the potential to become even more difficult if your driving record displays serious infractions. The issue can be brought up during the home study stage, especially if you were recently convicted of a DUI. 

4. Occupation 

Depending on your line of work, a serious traffic offense could cause you to lose a job. If your occupation requires driving, a suspended license for DUI or too many points on a record may concern an employer. When a conviction shows up on your criminal background check, it’s harder to get a new job too.

5. Future Criminal Charges 

A DUI or reckless driving conviction creates a permanent criminal record, which impacts the consequences you receive for future charges. Usually, repeat offenders are subject to harsher penalties, and the odds of an attorney getting your charges dropped or reduced become less likely.

Traffic violations can affect you in many ways beyond the initial cost of a citation. Working with a seasoned attorney will improve your chances of successfully contesting a ticket or reducing DUI charges, so you can maintain a clean driving record. Having served the residents of Texarkana, TX, for over two decades, Anderson Law Firm has become the community’s most trusted source for aggressive legal representation. Attorney Darren Anderson protects the rights and driving privileges of clients by providing quality legal guidance. Call (903) 792-1229 to make an appointment, or visit online for more information about the firm.