Can I Go to Jail for a Traffic Offense in Connecticut?

 Posted on March 30, 2023 in Criminal Defense

Many people consider traffic offenses minor inconveniences that are resolved by paying the fine. Although most drivers know that driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs can result in jail time depending on any past DUI history and the circumstances of the arrest, many do not realize that there are some traffic violations that can also result in criminal charges and potential jail time. If you have been cited for a serious traffic violation, consider contacting a defense attorney to find out what the best legal course of action is.

Traffic Offenses and Criminal Charges

When you commit a traffic violation like failing to come to a complete stop at a stop sign or going five miles an hour over the speed limit, law enforcement will typically either issue you a warning or a citation. If you receive a citation, there will be a dollar amount that you are required to pay as a fine unless you choose to request a hearing in court to contest the citation. All of these citations – even minor ones – become part of your driving record.

There are some violations, however, that Connecticut law has deemed serious, and if law enforcement alleges you committed any of these violations, you will be arrested and charged with a crime, not given a ticket. The most common of these violations include:

• Driving on a suspended license – If you have previously committed violations that resulted in having your license suspended and you are caught driving during this revocation period, you will more than likely be charged by the police and will need to go through the criminal justice system for resolution.

• Failure to pull over for law enforcement – If you have been signaled by a police officer to pull over but you fail to comply with that request, the officer can charge you will eluding or fleeing, which is a crime in Connecticut.

• Fleeing the scene of an accident – Under Connecticut law, any driver who is involved in a traffic accident is required to stop and exchange information with the other party or parties involved. If anyone has been injured and/or there is damage to vehicles, drivers are required to stay on the scene until police arrive. If you leave the scene of the crash, police can charge you with a hit-and-run accident.

• Reckless driving – Reckless driving is a criminal offense under Connecticut law. Reckless driving includes operating in a manner that puts others in danger, such as driving at excessive speeds, lane jumping, tailgating, etc.

Contact a Fairfield County Defense Lawyer

If you have been arrested for a traffic violation, contact a Stamford, CT criminal defense attorney right away. It is important to realize that these are criminal charges that could result in hefty fines, probation, a suspended sentence, or even jail time, depending on the seriousness of the offense you are being accused of. Call Law Offices of Daniel P. Weiner today at 203-348-5846 to schedule a free consultation.

Source:

https://www.cga.ct.gov/current/PUB/chap_248.htm