Colorado Springs Traffic Violation Lawyers

When it comes to traffic violations in Colorado, it’s important to know the distinction between infractions and offenses. Traffic infractions are considered civil charges, while traffic offenses are treated as criminal charges. Each type of violation carries its own set of consequences, and it’s crucial to address them promptly and appropriately.

The Point System

Colorado’s Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) operates under a driving record point system. Accumulating points on your driving record can lead to license suspension, depending on your age and the number of points accrued within certain time frames.

For drivers 21 years old and over, accumulating 12 or more points within 12 — or 18 or more points in 24 — months can result in license suspension. Similarly, for drivers in the 18 to 21 age bracket, 9 points or more within 12 months or 18 or more within 24 months can lead to suspension.

For those under 17, the threshold is even lower, with 6 points within 12 months, or 7 points in any time period, leading to suspension. These suspensions can last from 6 months to a maximum of 1 year.

Understanding the Points

Each traffic violation carries a specific point value, ranging from 0 to 12 points, depending on the severity of the offense. Speeding violations, improper passing, failure to yield, and other infractions all contribute to your point total. It’s crucial to be aware of how these points can accumulate and impact your driving privileges. Here’s the point scale in Colorado:

• Speeding 1-4 mph over posted speed limit – 0 Points.
• Speeding 5-9 mph over posted speed limit – 1 Points.
• Speeding 10-19 mph over posted speed limit – 4 Points.
• Speeding 20-39 mph over posted speed limit – 6 Points.
• Speeding 40 mph over posted speed limit – 12 Points.
• Improper passing – 4 Points.
• Failure to stop for school bus – 6 Points.
• Following too closely – 4 Points.
• Failure to observe traffic sign or signal – 4 Points.
• Failure to yield to emergency vehicle – 4 Points.
• Failure to yield right-of-way – 3 Points.
• Improper turn – 3 Points.
• Driving in wrong lane or direction on one-way street – 3 Points.
• Failure to signal or improper signal – 2 Points..
• Improper backing – 2 Points.
• Failure to dim or turn on lights – 2 Points.
• Operating a vehicle with defective head lamps – 1 Points.
• Eluding or attempting to elude a police officer – 12 Points.
• Alteration of suspension system – 3 Points.
• Failure to yield right-of-way to pedestrian – 4 Points.
• Failure to yield right-of-way to person with a disability – 6 Points.
• Reckless Driving – 8 Points.
• Careless Driving – 4 Points.
• Careless Driving Resulting in Death – 12 Points.
• Failure to reduce speed below an otherwise lawful speed when a special hazard exists – 3 Points.
• One to four miles per hour over the maximum lawful speed limit of forty miles per hour driving a low-power scooter -0 Points.
• Five to nine miles per hour over the maximum lawful speed limit of forty miles per hour driving a low-power scooter – 2 Points.
• Greater than nine miles per hour over the maximum lawful speed limit of forty miles per hour driving a low-power scooter – 4 Points.
• Failure to stop for school signals – 6 Points.
• Driving on wrong side of road or driving on wrong side of divided or controlled-access highway – 4 Points.
• Failure to maintain or show proof of insurance – 4 Points.
• Driving with a passenger who is under twenty-one years of age or driving between 12 midnight and 5 a.m. – 2 Points.
• DUI – 12 Points.
• Driving While Ability Impaired – 8 Points.
• Underage Drinking and Driving – 4 Points.
• Engaging in a Speed Contest – 12 Points.
• Engaging in a Speed Exhibition – 5 Points.
• Leaving the Scene of an Accident- 12 Points.

Navigating the Legal Process

Facing a traffic violation can be daunting, especially when considering the potential consequences of accumulating points on your driving record. However, you don’t have to navigate this process alone.

At The Law Firm of Mark S. Hanchey and Ben Peterson, we focus on helping individuals facing traffic violations in Colorado Springs. Our experienced team of attorneys understand the complexities of traffic law and can help you pursue the best possible outcome for your case.

From negotiating reduced charges to avoiding points and driving school, we’ll work tirelessly to protect your driving privileges and minimize the impact of your violation. By hiring one of our lawyers, you can save both time and money, avoiding the hassle of navigating the legal system on your own.

Avoiding Common Mistakes After Receiving a Traffic Ticket

Making the right decisions after receiving a traffic ticket can significantly impact the outcome of your case. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:

Pleading Guilty Without Consultation

One of the most common mistakes people make after receiving a traffic ticket is simply mailing in the ticket and pleading guilty. While this may seem like the easiest option, it can have serious consequences, including points on your license and potential license suspension.

At The Law Firm of Mark S. Hanchey and Ben Peterson, we advise against pleading guilty without first consulting with an experienced traffic violation lawyer. Our team can review the details of your case and help you understand your options before making any decisions.

Ignoring the Ticket

Another common mistake is ignoring the traffic ticket altogether. Failing to address the ticket can result in additional fines, license suspension, and even a warrant for your arrest.

It’s essential to take any traffic violation seriously and address it promptly. Our team can help you navigate the legal process and ensure that your rights are protected every step of the way.

Colorado Springs Traffic Violation Lawyers Client Story

This client story is for educational purposes only.

In the hustle and bustle of Colorado Springs, life was moving fast for Ronald. He had places to be, people to see, and deadlines to meet. But one day, everything came screeching to a halt when he saw those dreaded red and blue lights flashing in his rearview mirror.

As Ronald pulled over, his heart raced with anxiety. He knew he had been driving recklessly, but he never imagined it would lead to this — a traffic ticket that threatened to tarnish his driving record and disrupt his life.

Feeling overwhelmed and uncertain about what to do next, Ronald turned to The Law Firm of Mark S. Hanchey and Ben Peterson for help. From the moment he walked through the door, he felt a sense of relief wash over him. He knew he was in good hands.

Mark Hanchey, a seasoned traffic violation lawyer, listened attentively as Ronald recounted the events leading up to his ticket. With empathy and understanding, Mark reassured Ronald that they would do everything possible to help him.

Over the following weeks, Mark tirelessly fought on Ronald’s behalf. He scrutinized every detail of the case, leaving no stone unturned in his quest for justice. And finally, his hard work paid off.

In a moment of sheer relief, Ronald received the news — thanks to Mark’s experience and dedication, his traffic ticket had been thrown out. Not only that, but Ronald had avoided any points on his license, allowing him to breathe easy and move forward with his life.

As Ronald reflects on his experience, he was filled with gratitude for Mark and The Law Firm of Mark S. Hanchey and Ben Peterson.

If you’ve recently been given a traffic ticket for a violation in Colorado Springs, don’t face it alone.

The experienced traffic violation lawyers at The Law Firm of Mark S. Hanchey and Ben Peterson are here to help.

We understand the stress and uncertainty that comes with facing a traffic violation, but you don’t have to navigate this challenging situation on your own. Our team is dedicated to providing compassionate and knowledgeable legal guidance to individuals like you who find themselves in need of representation.

With our firm, you can expect personalized attention and a commitment to achieving the best possible outcome for your case. We offer free consultations, allowing you to discuss your situation with one of our experienced lawyers and explore your legal options with confidence.

From negotiating reduced charges to representing you in court, we’ll work tirelessly to protect your rights and help you move forward with your life. Don’t wait until it’s too late — contact The Law Firm of Mark S. Hanchey and Ben Peterson today and take the first step towards resolving your traffic violation.