Columbus Traffic Violation Lawyers

When you receive a traffic ticket in Columbus, Ohio, you might not fully understand the implications. There are two types of traffic tickets — traffic infractions and traffic offenses. Traffic infractions are civil charges, while traffic offenses are criminal charges. Each type carries different consequences, and understanding these can help you navigate the legal landscape.

Common Traffic Violations in Ohio

Ohio uses a driver’s license points system where points are assigned for certain traffic offenses. The type of offense is important because different violations have different point values. Here’s a breakdown of common traffic violations and their associated points:

Obedience to traffic control devices violations result in 2 points. Highway traffic signal violations also carry 2 points. Operation in willful or wanton disregard of the safety of persons or property is more serious, resulting in 4 points. Operation off street or highway without due disregard of the safety of persons or property will get you 2 points. If this operation is willful or wanton, it will cost you 4 points. Not having reasonable control of a vehicle, trolley, or streetcar adds 2 points to your record. Speeding 30 mph or more over the limit is a significant violation, adding 4 points. Speeding 6-29 mph over the limit will add 2 points, while speeding 5 mph or less over the limit does not add any points.

Approaching a stationary public safety vehicle displaying emergency lights results in 2 points. Driving at a slow speed carries 2 points. Lanes of travel violations also add 2 points. Street racing is a serious offense, adding 6 points to your record. Violations involving vehicles traveling in opposite directions result in 2 points. Overtaking and passing vehicles traveling in the same direction will add 2 points. Improper passing results in 2 points. Crossing a yellow line adds 2 points. One-way traffic violations carry 2 points.

Space between vehicles violations, such as following too closely, add 2 points. Crossing a divided highway will result in 2 points. Making an improper turn at an intersection adds 2 points. Prohibited U-turns also carry 2 points. Improper starting or backing results in 2 points. Violations related to turn and stop signals add 2 points. Right-of-way violations at through highways, stop signs, or yield signs carry 2 points. Obstructing the view and control of the driver, such as opening a door into moving traffic, results in 2 points. Driving on a closed highway will add 2 points to your record. Obstructing an intersection also carries 2 points. Placing injurious material on a highway results in 2 points. Failure to stop for a school bus is a serious violation, adding 2 points. Using prohibited earphones or earplugs while driving results in 2 points.

Operating a vehicle under the influence of alcohol or drugs with a blood or breath alcohol concentration of 0.17 or higher carries 6 points. Refusing to submit to testing when suspected of OVI also results in 6 points. A fourth or subsequent OVI offense, which is a felony, carries 6 points. An underage OVI offense adds 4 points. Assured clear distance violations result in 2 points. Driving left of center adds 2 points. Failure to yield the right of way carries 2 points. Failure to yield the right of way to pedestrians or blind persons also results in 2 points. Hitchhiking violations will add 2 points to your record. Stop sign violations at dangerous highway crossings over railroad tracks carry 2 points. Stopping at a railroad grade crossing also results in 2 points.
When points accumulate, they stay on your record for two years. Receiving six points will result in a warning letter, and accumulating twelve points will lead to a suspension of your driver’s license.

Driver’s License Suspensions for Traffic Violations

Ohio law establishes periods of suspension that courts can impose for traffic violations. The Ohio Revised Code § 4510.02(A) outlines these periods. For a Class One Suspension, the period is for life. A Class Two Suspension ranges from three years to life. A Class Three Suspension lasts from two to ten years. Class Four Suspensions range from one to five years. Class Five Suspensions last from six months to three years. A Class Six Suspension is for three months to two years. Lastly, a Class Seven Suspension can last up to one year.

According to Ohio Revised Code § 4510.02(B), suspensions from the Bureau of Motor Vehicles are as follows: a Class A Suspension lasts three years, a Class B Suspension is two years, a Class C Suspension is one year, a Class D Suspension is six months, a Class E Suspension is three months, and a Class F Suspension lasts until specific conditions are met.

Reinstatement Requirements

If your driver’s license is suspended, reinstatement typically requires serving a six-month suspension, completing a remedial driving course, filing a certificate of insurance known as an SR-22, paying a reinstatement fee, and retaking the complete driver license exam.

Why Hire a Lawyer?

If you receive a traffic ticket in Columbus, hiring one of our lawyers can help you pursue the best possible results. Not only can it save you time and money, but we might also be able to negotiate no points and avoid driving school for you. Plus, you won’t have to waste your time in court.

Mistakes to Avoid After Receiving a Traffic Ticket in Columbus, Ohio

When you receive a traffic ticket in Columbus, it is crucial to handle the situation correctly to avoid further complications. Many people make common mistakes that can lead to more significant issues, such as points on their license or even a suspended driver’s license.

Pleading Guilty by Mail

One of the most common mistakes is mailing in the ticket and pleading guilty. While this might seem like the easiest and quickest way to deal with a traffic violation, it can have long-lasting consequences. By pleading guilty, you are admitting to the offense, which results in points being added to your license. Accumulating points can eventually lead to the suspension of your driver’s license. This can affect your ability to drive to work, school, or other essential activities.

Ignoring the Ticket

Another mistake people make is ignoring the ticket altogether. Ignoring a traffic ticket will not make it go away. In fact, it can lead to additional penalties, including fines, increased points on your license, and even a warrant for your arrest. It is essential to address the ticket promptly to avoid these severe consequences.

Not Understanding the Consequences

Many drivers do not fully understand the consequences of their traffic violations. Each traffic offense in Ohio carries specific points, and these points stay on your record for two years. Accumulating six points will result in a warning letter, and twelve points will lead to a suspension of your driver’s license. Understanding these consequences is vital to making informed decisions about how to handle your traffic ticket.

How Sabol Mallory LLC Can Help

If you have received a traffic ticket, the Columbus traffic violation lawyers at Sabol Mallory LLC can help you navigate the legal process. Our team is dedicated to helping clients avoid the pitfalls associated with traffic violations. We can assist you in contesting the ticket, which can result in reduced penalties, fewer points on your license, or even dismissal of the charges.

Free Consultations

At Sabol Mallory LLC, we offer free consultations to discuss your case. During this consultation, we will review the details of your traffic ticket and provide guidance on the best course of action. By working with us, you can avoid the mistakes that many people make and pursue the best possible outcome for your situation.

Columbus Traffic Violation Lawyers Client Story

This client story is for educational purposes only.

John was driving home from work one evening when he was pulled over by a police officer. The officer told him he was speeding 30 MPH over the posted speed limit. John felt his heart sink as he received a traffic ticket. He knew this could mean points on his license, higher insurance rates, and possibly even a suspension of his driving privileges. He felt worried and unsure of what to do next.

That night, John couldn’t sleep. He kept thinking about how this ticket could affect his job and his family. He needed help but didn’t know where to turn. The next morning, he decided to search for Columbus traffic violation lawyers. That’s when he found Sabol Mallory LLC and decided to call them.

When John met with Chase Mallory, he felt a sense of relief. Chase listened to John’s story with understanding and compassion. He explained that speeding 30 MPH over the limit was a serious offense but assured John that they would work hard to fight the ticket. Chase explained the process and promised to do everything he could to help John avoid points on his license and get the ticket thrown out.

As the days passed, John felt more hopeful. Chase kept him informed every step of the way, answering all his questions and giving him peace of mind. John felt confident that he had made the right choice in hiring Sabol Mallory LLC.

Finally, the day of the court hearing arrived. John was nervous, but Chase was right there beside him, ready to defend his case. Chase presented a strong argument, showing the court that John deserved a chance. After a tense wait, the judge announced the decision: no points on John’s license and the ticket was thrown out.

John felt a wave of relief and gratitude. He couldn’t believe how much Chase had helped him. Thanks to Sabol Mallory LLC, John could continue driving without the fear of losing his license or paying higher insurance rates. He knew he had made the best choice by calling them.

Contact Sabol Mallory LLC Today

If you’ve recently received a traffic ticket in Columbus, Ohio, don’t face it alone. The team at Sabol Mallory LLC is here to help you navigate the legal process and achieve the best possible outcome for your case.

Free Consultations

We understand the stress and uncertainty that come with receiving a traffic ticket. That’s why we offer free consultations to discuss your situation. During your consultation, we will review the details of your ticket, answer your questions, and provide you with clear guidance on your options moving forward.

Dedicated Legal Representation

At Sabol Mallory LLC, we are committed to providing dedicated legal representation tailored to your specific needs. Whether you’re facing a speeding ticket, reckless driving charge, or any other traffic violation, our experienced Columbus traffic violation lawyers will work diligently to protect your rights and interests.

Achieving the Best Possible Outcome

Our goal is to achieve the best possible outcome for your case. We will explore all avenues to minimize the impact of the traffic ticket on your driving record, insurance rates, and overall livelihood. From negotiating reduced penalties to contesting the ticket in court, we will advocate tirelessly on your behalf.

Contact Us Today

Don’t wait to address your traffic ticket. Contact Sabol Mallory LLC today to schedule your free consultation. Let us help you understand your legal options and take proactive steps to protect your driving privileges. Our team is ready to provide the guidance and support you need during this challenging time.

Columbus, OH Traffic Violation Resources

Traffic Violations Bureau | Franklin County Municipal Court — The Traffic Violations Bureau manages all tickets and complaints issued by 21 municipal law enforcement agencies and eight townships within Franklin County. The list includes the Columbus Division of Police, Ohio State Highway Patrol, Franklin County Sheriff, Ohio State University Police, and Port Columbus Police. Tickets can be paid online, in person, or by mail.

Traffic Diversion Program | Columbus City Attorney — Visit this website to learn more about the Columbus City Attorney’s Traffic Diversion Program. Learn more about the goals, eligibility, and outcomes. If you successfully complete the Traffic Diversion Program, the charge against you will be dismissed upon payment of court costs and the non-refundable administrative fee.

DragonCam nails 9,352 speeders on I-76 in Norton; represents $1.8 million in fines — View November 2018 Akron Beacon Journal story about the 9,352 civil violations for speeding Norton issued between September 10 and October 31 of that year thanks to a photo-enforced radar program.  The speed limit in the active construction zone was 55 mph but was returned to 65 mph by the Ohio Department of Transportation as the construction work has been completed for the season. Norton announced that the photo-enforced program was temporarily suspended for the winter season but would return in the spring when active construction begins again.