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Why You Need a Traffic Attorney If Your License Gets Suspended

by | Jan 24, 2023 | Criminal Defense

Car fob next to a judge's gavel and scales of justice

Why You Need a Traffic Attorney If Your License Gets Suspended

Driving is essential to living:

  • Driving to and from work.
  • Dropping and picking up your children from school.
  • Attending church with your loved ones.
  • Visiting medical professionals.

All of these actions become much more difficult without a driver’s license.

When your driver’s license is revoked, it impedes your quality of life. However, getting your driver’s license back is easier than you may think!

Cotton Law Firm examines the importance of hiring a traffic attorney to help you attain driving privileges once again. If you live in Durham, Lumberton, or Fayetteville, NC, and are struggling with a driver’s license suspension, reach out to the expert lawyers at Cotton Law Firm today.

Common Suspensions & Revocations in NC

First, it is essential to know why your driver’s license was suspended in the first place. There is a multitude of reasons that your license may be revoked, and they are outlined below.

Driving While Impaired

If you are convicted of driving while impaired, your driver’s license will be revoked, at minimum, for a year and, at maximum, permanently. Depending on the aggravating factors and mitigating circumstances, there are varying levels of DWI convictions. If you refuse to participate in a breathalyzer analysis, that automatically is a one-year suspension of your license.

Learn more about DWI convictions, their severity, and driver’s license suspension by clicking here!

Driving With a Suspended or Revoked License

If you are convicted of driving with a suspended or revoked license, you will suffer the consequences. The punishment for this conviction ranges from an additional one-year suspension to permanent revocation of your license.

It is important to note that after a driver’s license suspension is lifted, it does not automatically reinstate your license. Multiple steps must be taken to drive safely and legally on the road again. You must hire a traffic attorney that will fight for your rights, like Cotton Law Firm.

Speeding

If you are convicted of a speeding violation, it doesn’t automatically mean your license will be suspended. However, it is essential to note that this is a potential punishment if found guilty, with a minimum of 30 days and a maximum of up to six months. According to the North Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles (NCDMV), if you are convicted of driving any vehicle more than 15 mph over the speed limit while driving at a speed higher than 55mph or driving a rate greater than 80mph, your license will be revoked for at least 30 days. Hiring a competent traffic attorney will help reduce your driver’s license revocation.

Accumalation of Points

Another common reason drivers lose their license is due to an accumulation of points in a certain period of time. With a suspension of 60 days to one year, the consequences for the conviction of accumulating too many points in three years can be avoided with more careful driving.

What is a Restricted License?

A restricted license is a court-appointed license that allows limited and occupational driving privileges with specific conditions. Driving to and from work, school, church, and medical appointments are some potential privileges a restricted license offers. The privilege of a limited driver’s license is available to those without a suspended license within the past three years, nor do they have additional pending traffic offenses.

Can I Get My Driver’s License Back After a Permanent Revocation?

Your license may be permanently revoked in North Carolina due to your convictions. However, some steps and qualifications must be met to be considered to have your driver’s license reinstated. If these conditions are met, speak with a traffic attorney at Cotton Law Firm and consider appealing to have your driving privileges restored. Specific requirements that must be met include the following:

  • You have not had a license for at least two years.
  • No drug or alcohol offenses for a minimum of two years.
  • You do not use controlled substances illegally, nor do you excessively use prescribed medication or alcohol.

Restore Your Driver’s License With the Help of a Traffic Attorney

Being convicted of a traffic violation resulting in a suspended license is stressful but more accessible with a knowledgeable traffic attorney by your side. There are many reasons your driver’s license may be suspended, and there are important steps to reinstate your license.

If you have been charged with a DWI, speeding, or something else, don’t hesitate to contact the traffic attorneys at Cotton Law Firm for a consultation. Our team looks forward to getting you back on the road safely.