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West Virginia Traffic Penalties
How to Handle a West Virginia Traffic Ticket
Understanding Your Options
When you receive a traffic ticket in West Virginia, it’s important to know your options for handling it. Here’s a breakdown of what you can do:
Ways to Pay Your Traffic Ticket Fines
- Online: Many fines can be paid through the state’s online payment system, providing a quick and convenient option.
- By Mail: You can send your payment via mail, following the instructions on your ticket.
- By Phone: Some jurisdictions offer phone payment services. Check your ticket for specific information.
- In Person: Visit the courthouse or designated office to pay your fine directly.
Fighting or Reducing Your Fine
- Contest the Ticket: If you believe you were wrongfully cited, you can dispute the ticket in court.
- Request Fine Reduction: Contact the court to inquire about the possibility of lowering your fine.
The Importance of Timely Response
- Avoid Additional Penalties: Ignoring your traffic ticket can lead to increased fines or even a suspension of your driver’s license.
- Ohio Revised Code Compliance: Ensure that all actions taken are in accordance with the Ohio Revised Code, which governs traffic violations and associated penalties.
Responding promptly and understanding these options can help you manage your traffic ticket effectively and avoid further complications.
FINES & PENALTIES
Traffic Violations in West Virginia
When dealing with traffic tickets in West Virginia, it’s important to understand that the fines can differ depending on the specific court handling your case. Here’s what you need to know:
Payment Deadlines and Additional Charges
- Timely Payment: Make sure to pay your traffic fines by the specified deadline to avoid any extra charges.
- Late Fees: If you miss the payment deadline, additional late fees will be applied to your fine amount.
Traffic Ticket Details
- Ticket Amount: Check your traffic ticket for the exact amount you need to pay.
- Deadlines: Be aware of the payment due dates listed on your ticket.
- Penalties: Familiarize yourself with any additional penalties that may apply if payment is not received on time.
For reference to legal specifics, such as the Ohio Revised Code, ensure you are informed of the laws applicable to your case. Always consult the details provided on your ticket for the most accurate information given by our Summerville traffic lawyer.
Understanding the Ohio DMV Point System
License Suspension Based on Points
The Ohio Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) uses a point system to monitor driving behavior. Based on the points accumulated, your license may be suspended as follows:
Some major violations include:
– Reckless driving
– Driving under the influence (DUI) of drugs or alcohol
Points for Traffic Violations
Points from traffic violations stay on a driver’s record for two years post-conviction, while the infraction itself remains on record for five years. Here are some common violations and their corresponding points:
| Violation | Points |
| Speeding 11-14 mph over the limit | 3 |
| Speeding 15-19 mph over the limit | 5 |
| Speeding 20+ mph over the limit | 6 |
| Speeding in a school zone | 6 |
| 3 or more violations involving wireless communication devices (any combination of talking or texting) | 3 |
| Passing violation | 3 |
| Failure to yield | 3 |
| Failure to obey traffic light | 3 |
| Failure to obey stop sign | 3 |
| Hazardous driving | 3 |
| Driving left of center | 3 |
| Driving too fast for conditions | 3 |
| Failure to maintain control of vehicle | 3 |
| Driving the wrong way on a one-way street | 3 |
| Littering | 3 |
| Improper lane violation | 3 |
| Failure to observe a safety zone | 3 |
| Failure to follow a police officer’s instructions | 3 |
| Driving on the wrong side of the road | 3 |
| Following too closely | 2 |
| More than 3 passengers in the front seat | 2 |
| Improper turning | 2 |
| Improper backing | 2 |
| Improper signal or no signal | 2 |
| Reckless Driving | 6 |
| Careless Driving | 3 |
| Hit & Run | 6 |
| Fleeing from an officer | 2 |
| All other moving violations | 2 |
Defensive Driving Course
Participating in an approved Defensive Driving Course (DDC) can reduce your points by three. However, if you have 14 or more points, completing a DDC won’t remove the suspension. If you’re facing a 30-day suspension with 12-13 points, you can offset it by completing a DDC and paying the reinstatement fee before your suspension date. Approved courses must be taken in person at locations like West Virginia Driver Training and Bluefield AAA.
Defensive Driving Course Guidelines
Eligibility for Point Reduction
Frequency Limit
The Defensive Driving Course can be completed for point reduction purposes only once every 12 months.
Online Course Restrictions in West Virginia
According to the Ohio Revised Code, online Defensive Driving Courses are not recognized for point reduction within the state of West Virginia.
MOVING VIOLATIONS
A moving violation happens when a traffic law, as outlined in the Ohio Revised Code, is broken by a moving vehicle. Common examples include speeding, ignoring stop signs or red lights, and driving under the influence. In contrast, non-moving violations often relate to parking issues or equipment malfunctions.
RESPONDING TO YOUR TICKET
There are two main options for handling your traffic ticket:
Paying the Fine
Paying a West Virginia traffic ticket implies admitting to the offense. Here’s what it means:
- You’re waiving your right to contest: By paying, you choose not to challenge the ticket in court.
- Potential license suspension: Depending on your driving history, the Department of Public Safety (DPS) might suspend your West Virginia driver’s license.
- Insurance impact: The violation may lead to higher car insurance premiums.
Requesting a Contested Hearing
If you intend to plead “not guilty” to the violation, you can request a contested hearing at the relevant county court. This can be done by marking the appropriate box on your ticket and mailing it back. Interestingly, only about 5% of drivers choose to contest their traffic tickets.
HIRING A TRAFFIC TICKET LAWYER
Challenging a traffic ticket can potentially help you avoid penalties, license suspensions, and increased insurance rates. A traffic ticket lawyer can be invaluable, as they typically:
- Request a contested hearing on your behalf.
- Seek discovery for your case to gather all necessary information.
- Represent you in court effectively.
- Negotiate with prosecutors to potentially have charges reduced or dismissed.
Engaging a lawyer could be an important step in effectively managing your traffic violation case.
Contact us
If you find yourself in a similar situation. Hire Sean Logue as their West Virginia traffic lawyer, Contact us at Mountaineer Criminal Law Group anytime, day or night, at (304) 381-3656 to take advantage of the free initial consultations. Don’t wait!