If you have recently found yourself in a situation where you are facing the possibility of losing your driver’s license, we understand how overwhelming and concerning it can be. The fear of losing your ability to drive can affect your daily life, your job, and your overall routine. It is natural to feel uncertain about what steps to take next. At our firm, we empathize with your feelings and are here to guide you through this challenging time. We want you to know that if you need assistance with your case, we are ready to provide the legal support necessary to help you achieve a positive outcome.
There are several offenses in Georgia that can result in a suspension of your driver’s license. Whether it is due to a criminal conviction or traffic violations, understanding what leads to a suspension is crucial. By knowing the rules, you can take appropriate steps to avoid these consequences or work towards getting your license reinstated if it has already been suspended. Below, we explain some of the most common offenses that lead to license suspension in Georgia.
Driving Under the Influence (DUI)
One of the most serious offenses that can result in a license suspension is a conviction for driving under the influence, or DUI. If you are arrested for DUI, your driver’s license can be suspended, even before your trial begins. Georgia has strict laws regarding DUI offenses, and the penalties are severe. If you are found guilty of DUI, your license could be suspended for months, or even years, depending on the number of offenses you have had.
It is important to note that Georgia also has an implied consent law. This means that if you refuse to take a chemical test (such as a breathalyzer or blood test) when requested by an officer, your license can be automatically suspended for a year. Even if you are not convicted of DUI, refusing a test still carries serious consequences.
Accumulating Too Many Points on Your Driving Record
In Georgia, drivers are assigned points for various traffic violations. If you accumulate 15 or more points on your driving record within 24 months, your license may be suspended. The more serious the offense, the more points it will add to your record. For example, offenses such as speeding more than 35 miles per hour over the limit, reckless driving, and driving without a valid license can quickly add up.
For some drivers, a suspension can occur after just a few traffic violations. If you are facing a potential suspension due to accumulating points, it is important to seek legal counsel to see if there is a way to reduce or dismiss the charges.
Greg Willis has been successful at defending DUI cases (over 93% without a conviction)
He's the only lawyer in the State of Georgia to ever be recognized for all three of these accomplishments.
Received the Samurai Lawyer Award for having gone to jail for a total of 4 days in order to save his own client
Received the BadAss Lawyer Award for the biggest impact of all DUI lawyers in DUI defense in the country
Received the vote of Georgia Lawyers as a Superlawyer in DUI Law for 10 straight consecutive years
Driving Without Insurance
Driving without proper car insurance is a common offense that leads to a license suspension in Georgia. Georgia law requires all drivers to carry a minimum amount of liability insurance. If you are caught driving without insurance, you could face a suspension of your license. The length of the suspension depends on whether it is your first or second offense. Repeat offenders may face longer suspension periods, so it is essential to always ensure that your vehicle is covered by valid insurance. If you find yourself in this situation, you may be able to reinstate your license after a period of suspension, but you will be required to show proof of insurance and pay any associated fees.
Failure to Pay Child Support
In Georgia, failure to pay child support is another offense that can result in a driver’s license suspension. If you are behind on child support payments, the state can suspend your license as a way to enforce payment. The suspension may occur after several months of unpaid child support. If you are facing this type of situation, it is important to take action immediately to resolve the issue. Seeking a modification of your child support order or working out a payment plan with the Georgia Department of Child Support Services may be possible.
Felony Convictions Involving a Motor Vehicle
If you are convicted of certain felony offenses that involve the use of a motor vehicle, your driver’s license can be suspended or revoked. These offenses may include vehicular homicide, fleeing the scene of an accident, and driving with a suspended or revoked license. In these cases, not only do you face serious criminal charges, but you may also face long-term consequences regarding your driving privileges.
For individuals facing felony charges related to the use of a vehicle, it is important to work with a skilled attorney who can help you navigate the complex legal process and protect your rights. A successful defense strategy may result in reduced charges or alternative penalties that do not include a license suspension.
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Reckless Driving
Reckless driving is another traffic offense that can lead to a suspension of your driver’s license. Reckless driving is defined as driving in a manner that shows a disregard for the safety of others on the road. This may include speeding excessively, running red lights, or engaging in other dangerous behaviors that put others at risk. Reckless driving can result in serious accidents, and Georgia takes these offenses seriously.
If you are charged with reckless driving, you could face not only a license suspension but also fines, increased insurance rates, and possible jail time, depending on the circumstances. It is important to seek legal representation as soon as possible to protect your rights and avoid further consequences.
Driving with a Suspended or Revoked License
If your license has already been suspended or revoked and you are caught driving, you could face even more severe penalties. Driving with a suspended or revoked license is a criminal offense in Georgia, and it often leads to additional fines, longer suspension periods, and possibly jail time. It is essential to fully understand why your license was suspended or revoked before getting behind the wheel again.
Featured Case Results
Protecting a Professional License After a DUI and Refusal of a Blood Test
Result: DUI Dismissed with No Jail Time and No Loss of License
Challenging Admissibility of a .19 BAC Blood Test and Field Sobriety Evaluation
Result: No Jail Time, No DUI on Record, No License Suspension
If you find yourself in this situation, it is important to take immediate action to resolve any underlying issues and work towards getting your license reinstated. Legal assistance can help you navigate this process and ensure that you comply with all state requirements.
If you are facing a license suspension or have already lost your driving privileges, you do not have to go through this difficult time alone. At Willis Law Firm, we are here to provide you with the legal guidance and representation you need to fight for your rights and work towards a favorable outcome. Whether you are dealing with a DUI, accumulating too many points on your record, or any of the other offenses listed above, we are ready to help you get back on the road.
Our firm understands the stress and uncertainty that come with the possibility of losing your license, and we are committed to helping you achieve the best possible result in your case. If you need assistance, don’t hesitate to contact us today for a consultation. Let us help you navigate the legal process and protect your driving privileges.