Palos Heights, IL Traffic Ticket Defense Attorney

Lawyer for Traffic Violations and Criminal Traffic Charges in Palos Heights, Illinois

Most people have received a speeding ticket or another type of traffic ticket at some point. Tickets can vary in severity depending on the specific offense, but even minor violations can have effects that go beyond short-term inconvenience. In these situations, you may be concerned about accumulating too many points on your driving record, losing your driver's license, or being burdened with a permanent criminal record. An attorney with experience addressing traffic violations can provide the legal guidance you need in these situations.

At the Law Office of J. Francis Barker, P.C., we can evaluate the details of your case, identify the best legal defenses, and advocate on your behalf in traffic court or criminal proceedings. We will help you protect your driving privileges while working to prevent unnecessary penalties. Whether your charges involve excessive speed, unsafe maneuvers, or driving without a valid license, our representation can make a difference in the outcome of your case.

What Is Reckless Driving in Illinois?

Under 625 ILCS 5/11-503, reckless driving may involve operating a motor vehicle unsafely and exhibiting a dangerous disregard for other people's safety. Reckless driving is considered a criminal offense in Illinois, and it is typically classified as a Class A misdemeanor. In cases involving injuries to others, felony charges may apply.

Behaviors that may result in a reckless driving charge include:

• Excessive Speed Combined With Unsafe Driving: Speeding alone does not usually rise to the level of reckless driving. However, driving significantly over the speed limit while weaving between vehicles or ignoring traffic signals may be considered reckless.
• Tailgating at High Speeds: Failing to maintain enough distance when following behind another vehicle, especially on a highway or in heavy traffic, can be perceived as intentionally endangering others.
• Street Racing or Drag Racing: Participating in informal races on public roads is considered to be dangerous, and it can result in reckless driving charges.
• Disregarding Traffic Signals or Stop Signs: Ignoring traffic control devices in a way that endangers others, particularly in residential areas or near schools, may be considered to be reckless.
• Sudden Lane Changes Without Signaling or Checking Blind Spots: When aggressive maneuvers lead to near-misses or actual accidents, law enforcement may charge a driver with reckless driving.

When Aggravated Speeding May Lead to Criminal Charges

Under Illinois law, aggravated speeding is treated as a criminal offense rather than a simple infraction. These charges may apply when a driver exceeds the posted limit by a substantial margin:

• 26 to 34 Miles Per Hour Over the Limit: This is charged as a Class B misdemeanor under 625 ILCS 5/11-601.5(a). A conviction is punishable by up to 180 days in jail and fines up to $1,500.
• 35 Miles Per Hour Over the Limit: This is a Class A misdemeanor under 625 ILCS 5/11-601.5(b). A conviction is punishable by up to one year in jail and a maximum fine of $2,500.

Other Traffic Violations

There are numerous other traffic offenses in Illinois that can lead to tickets, fines, and potential criminal charges. Some of the most common violations that drivers face include:

• Driving on a Revoked or Suspended License: Operating a vehicle without valid driving privileges is a misdemeanor offense.
• Failure to Yield: When a driver does not respect the rights of pedestrians in crosswalks, turns in front of oncoming traffic, or merges into traffic unsafely, they could be charged with a traffic offense.
• Improper Lane Usage: Actions such as weaving between lanes, changing lanes without signaling, passing unsafely, or not staying within marked lanes could lead to traffic tickets.
• Disobeying Traffic Control Devices: A driver could be ticketed for ignoring posted signs, failing to stop for traffic lights, or driving in lanes that are closed because of construction.
• Texting While Driving or Other Uses of Handheld Devices: Illinois law prohibits the use of electronic devices while driving, with exceptions for making phone calls using hands-free technology. Violations can lead to fines and the possibility of a license suspension.
• Hit and Run: Failure to report a crash involving property damage or failure to stop, render aid, and exchange contact information following an accident that resulted in an injury may result in misdemeanor or felony charges.

Contact Our Palos Heights Traffic Violations Attorney

After receiving a traffic ticket, being arrested on criminal traffic charges, or being issued a ticket through the mail, it is important to respond correctly and take steps to minimize the ways you may be affected. At the Law Office of J. Francis Barker, P.C., our attorney can advise you on the best ways to protect your driver's license and avoid other penalties that could affect your life. Contact our Palos Heights, IL traffic charges defense lawyer by calling 708-321-1223 to arrange a free consultation today.