Life is full of unexpected event. You never think you’ll be the one to be involved in a misdemeanor or a felony, but if you do, you need to know the facts. When you get a ticket, it’s usually for small misdemeanor traffic violations. These violations include DUIs, driving without insurance or a license, reckless driving, and so on. Most of these violations for not require immediate arrest or trial. But when do minor traffic violations turn into serious felony charges? Here are a few instances where misdemeanor traffic violations can turn into a felony traffic ticket.
In most states, a misdemeanor turns into a felony traffic violation if the accident causes serious injuries or destruction of property. While the distinction between misdemeanor and felony vary from state to state, most country court systems believe that any incident that results in vehicular homicide is a felony. Repeat offenses can also be turned into a felony offenses, especially for more serious misdemeanors such as repeat DUIs or driving without a license. Leaving the scene of an accident, known as a hit-and-run, can warrant a felony ticket, especially if the accident caused injuries to the other driver or their vehicle.
Felonies are, by definition, a crime that is punishable by more than one year in prison. Severe felony violations can even result in lifelong imprisonment, and in some cases, the death penalty. Most felonies also include a fine, which can range anywhere between $500 and several thousand. Felony traffic tickets can also result in the loss of your license, impounding of your car, and a permanent mark on your criminal record. If your misdemeanor traffic offense is in danger of turning into a felony traffic violation, seek legal help from a traffic ticket lawyer to help your prepare your case.