In the Commonwealth, there are many different types of traffic violations. Motorists need to stay up to speed on the various traffic violations and the penalties in case they are charged with breaking one of the many traffic laws. Some of offenses carry severe punishments that may have a negative impact on a defnedant’s driving record and cause a suspension of his or her driver's license, as well as an increase in his or her insurance premiums. If you are charged with a traffic violation, you should speak with a criminal defense attorney.
Some of the more common driving offenses in Massachusetts include:
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Careless or reckless driving
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Speeding (traveling over the posted speed limit)
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Driving without a license
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Driving without car insurance
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Driving with a suspended, revoked, or expired driver's license
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Failure to respect and obey a law enforcement official
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Driving while impaired or under the influence of alcohol or drugs
Young drivers under the age of 18 may face different punishments for their traffic violations. In the Commonwealth, younger drivers are not permitted to carry passengers or operate a vehicle after certain hours. Young drivers who have a permit cannot drive without the presence of a licensed driver. If a driver carries passengers before the legal age to do so, he or she will face a 60-day license suspension and have to pay a license reinstatement fee. If a driver under 18 years old is caught speeding, he or she will face a 90-day license suspension and must pass a driver retraining course in addition to paying a license reinstatement fee. Young drivers caught using a cell phone will face a 60-day license suspension and a fine.
As a motorist in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, you should know the laws and penalties you might face when you break a traffic law. Below, are traffic laws that motorists should know before they drive on the highways of the Commonwealth.
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Law of the Road - (MGL chapter 89)
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Driving while under the influence of alcohol - (90 MGL section 24)
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Operating a motor vehicle without a license - (90 MGL section 10)
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Operating motor vehicle without liability policy, bond or security deposit - (90 MGL section 34J)
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Operation of unregistered or improperly equipped motor vehicles - (90 MGL section 9)
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Designation of highways as through ways; traffic control signs and devices (red lights/stoplights) - (89 MGL section 9)
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Accident reports; supplemental report; penalty for violation - (90 MGL section 26)
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Seat belt use required; exemptions; penalty - (90 MGL section 13A)
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Child passenger restraints; fine; violation as evidence in a civil action - (90 MGL section 7AA)
If you have been charged with a road or traffic violation, you need to speak with a criminal defense attorney. Boston Criminal Defense Attorney Edward Molari can provide you with legal advice that may help reduce the punishment or lessen the charge. He cares about your situation and provides personalized legal services in every case. Contact Attorney, Edward Molari at 617-942-1532 for a free consultation.