Drive with a Suspended License and Pay the Price
You might drive with a suspended license for many reasons. Perhaps you don't even know your license is suspended. Or you are aware, but you simply need to drive to get to work to support yourself and your family. Either way, remember, the law isn't interested in excuses.
Your Washington defense lawyer, however, is compassionate to your situation. He or she understands driving with a suspended license happens sometimes, and it may not always be for a criminal reason. Nevertheless, it is still a serious crime and you must be prepared for the consequences.
Why was my License Suspended?
Authorities may suspend your license for many reasons, including:
- Unpaid traffic tickets
- Improperly reinstating your license after a previous suspension (retaking your driver's test or failing to pay fines)
- Conviction of DUI or reckless driving
- Multiple and habitual traffic violations
- Being involved in an accident without insurance
What are the Penalties for Driving with a Suspended License?
As with most offenses, the more you have on your record already, the more severe the penalties.
- Third Degree: This is the least serious of the three levels of driving with a suspended license. It's a misdemeanor, and as long as you are eligible for reinstatement, it can typically be resolved by paying some fines.
- Second Degree: A more serious offense, driving with a suspended license second degree happens when you're driving and your license is not eligible for reinstatement. Typically, your license was suspended due to a reckless driving or DUI charge. Penalties may include an additional license suspension and hearing.
- First Degree: Driving with a suspended license first degree is a serious offense. This occurs when you're known as a habitual traffic offender. As a gross misdemeanor, it carries serious penalties, including mandatory minimums, a seven-year license suspension and mandatory jail time.
Of course, preventative measures are key. You can check this website (https://fortress.wa.gov/dol/dolprod/dsdDriverStatusDisplay/?checkstatus) anytime to see the status of your driver's license. Your Tacoma traffic violation defense attorney understands it's imperative to secure legal defense as soon as you are caught driving on a suspended license. Contact a lawyer today.
