One of the keys to safe driving is understanding traffic laws. If you live in North Carolina, familiarize yourself with the state’s laws and violations to stay safe behind the wheel. Consult a traffic attorney regarding any violations you incur.

5 Types of Traffic Violations in the Old North State

1. Impaired Driving

Driving under the influence of alcohol or another impairing substance gets you ticketed in North Carolina. In terms of alcohol, a concentration of 0.08 or more in your blood or urine is illegal if you are over 21. If you are under 21, driving with any alcohol in your system is an offense. Depending on factors such as whether the DUI is a first offense, penalties include fines, license suspension or revocation, community service, jail time, and higher insurance rates.

2. Speeding

The state of North Carolina uses an “absolute” speeding law, meaning you can get a ticket for going one mile over the limit. Penalties include fines of up to $1,000, points on your driving record, up to 60 days in jail, and license suspension for up to one year. If yours is a minor speeding offense and your driving record is otherwise clean, your traffic attorney can probably waive your court appearance.

3. Reckless Driving

Driving that carelessly or willfully endangers the lives of other drivers and damages property is considered reckless in North Carolina. For example, if you go 15 miles per hour or more over the speed limit in a 55 mile per hour zone, your driving is reckless. If you are convicted, you will have a permanent criminal record because reckless driving is a Class 2 Misdemeanor. Fines of up to $1,000, points on your driving record, and up to 60 days in jail may also occur.

4. Driving With a Suspended or Revoked License

Operating a vehicle with a suspended or revoked license is a serious offense, whether it is for personal or commercial reasons. Driving with a suspended commercial driver’s license, for example, can result in a lifetime ban, depending on your traffic violation history. Other penalties include misdemeanor convictions of up to 120 days in jail as well as permanent license revocation.

5. Hit & Run

Failing to stop at the scene of an accident you caused is another serious traffic offense. It can include various charges, such as failing to stop, provide assistance, or alert the police. The state’s only exception for leaving the accident scene is when it would cause serious harm to you or your passengers. Depending on the nature of the hit and run, you could face a Class F felony for causing injuries or a Class H felony for serious injuries and fatalities.

If you have been charged with or are a victim of any of these violations, contact C. Roland Krueger Attorney and Counselor at Law. The traffic attorney serves clients throughout Lexington, NC, offering the same level of dedication to all. Call (336) 248-8464 to make an appointment or visit the traffic attorney online for more about the practice.