Many people rely on using the roads in New Jersey to carry out their daily activities. At the same time, there is a wide range of traffic offenses committed each day.
Traffic violations can vary in terms of the impact they have on potential victims as well as their legal consequences. Many traffic offenses are considered to be minor, while others are deemed to be more serious in nature. Outlined below are three types of major traffic violations in New Jersey.
DWI offenses
Driving while intoxicated is among the more serious traffic violations in New Jersey. The potential consequences of a DWI conviction include the suspension of your license as well as the installation of an ignition interlock device, which can be costly. For repeat offenders, the penalties are likely to be more severe and could include the complete removal of driving privileges, fines as well as jail sentences.
Careless or reckless driving violations
Both careless and reckless driving are considered to be major traffic violations in New Jersey, with the latter being more severe. The difference between the two offenses lies with the intent of the driver. Drivers who have been charged with careless driving may have mistakenly broken the law, whereas reckless drivers are likely to have shown complete contempt for the law and safety of others.
Being convicted of either offense can result in fines and a loss of driving privileges. However, a serious conviction for reckless driving could even result in jail time.
Exceeding the speed limit
While speeding offenses that only just exceed the limit may be treated as minor offenses, violations that exceed the limit by 15 mph or more are taken very seriously. Punishments for this offense can vary based on the exact speed and surroundings. For example, a major speeding violation that has taken place in a school zone is likely to be punished severely, because children have been endangered.
Understanding the law relating to traffic violations could be in your best interests. As a road user in New Jersey, it is also important to remember that you are legally protected.
