misdemeanor traffic ticket

Cruising down Palm Beach's scenic roads, palm trees swaying, radio blasting, and... oh no, flashing lights in your rearview mirror. Suddenly, the sunshine feels less bright. While most traffic stops involve minor infractions, some violations in Palm Beach, Florida, carry the heavier weight of misdemeanors or even traffic criminal violations. Understanding these distinctions and the most common offenses can help you navigate such situations effectively. Know Your Stakes: Misdemeanor vs. Infraction Misdemeanors: These carry harsher penalties than infractions, including jail time (up to a year), fines exceeding $500, and driver's license suspension. Infractions: Often categorized as civil violations with fines but no jail time or license implications. Palm Beach's Most Common Misdemeanor Traffic Tickets: Reckless Driving: This encompasses behaviors demonstrating disregard for safety, like speeding excessively, weaving through traffic, or aggressive driving near pedestrians. Penalties vary but can include hefty fines (up to $1,000), jail time (up to 90 days), and license suspension. Driving Under the Influence (DUI): Operating a vehicle while impaired by alcohol or drugs carries severe consequences in Palm Beach. Penalties can involve hefty fines (up to $10,000), jail time (up to a year), license revocation, and mandatory alcohol education programs. Leaving the Scene of [...]