In the state of Florida, there are several ways to find yourself with a suspended license. Many drivers are surprised to learn that their license has been suspended, because it’s not often discussed that there are multiple ways to lose your driving privileges that actually have nothing to do with being on the road behind the wheel. If you discover that your license is suspended for one of the following reasons, it’s important to stop driving immediately as being caught driving with a suspended license is only going to put you in a deeper hole than you’re already in – whether it is financially or criminally.
Here are four ways you may end up with a suspended driver’s license in Florida without actually being behind the wheel:
1. Not Compiling with a Court Order
Did you know that failure to show up to court when summoned (whether for a traffic offense or not) can result in a suspended driver’s license? Also, not paying a traffic ticket or setting a case for court within 30 days of receiving it can cause the courts to suspend your license in the state of Florida.
2. Not Having Car Insurance
In the state of Florida you are required to obtain car insurance. Even if you are following all traffic laws, if law enforcement discovers that your vehicle is not properly insured you are at risk for having your driver’s license suspended. Make sure your insurance is current and you’re carrying proof on you at all times while on the road.
3. Failure to Fulfill a Financial Responsibility
It’s often overlooked but, there are several financial responsibilities that are attached to one’s ability to have a driver’s license in good standing. Ignoring the following responsibilities can result in the suspension of your driver’s license in the state of Florida:
Paying for legally-required auto insurance
Paying child support
Paying for a traffic ticket
Having a financial lien against your license
4. Accumulating Too Many Points Against Your License
Sometimes it may seem easier to just pay for a traffic ticket outright rather than to try to fight it or take the recommended courses to help lessen the points that tend to be part of the punishment. While this may seem like the quickest and easiest route, paying a traffic ticket usually results in points being added to your license. Accumulating too many points in a specific duration of time can result in the suspension of your license.
Each traffic violation carries a certain amount of points. The more points you get, the longer you could be stuck with a suspended license:
12 points within 12 months leads to a 30-day suspension
18 points within 18 months leads to a three-month suspension
24 points within 36 months leads to a one-year suspension
If you or someone you know have found themselves in a situation where they may be facing a suspension of their Florida driver’s license, contacting an attorney who has experience in criminal defense cases as well as strong knowledge in how the Florida DMV works is the first step in getting back on the right track. The assistance of an experienced criminal defense attorney like Russell Spatz can save you hours of headaches and frustration when it comes to figuring out the next steps needed to fix your license. Give him a call today at 305-442-0200 to schedule your consultation.