New Jersey had 564 traffic-related fatalities in 2018, which translates to roughly 6.3 deaths per every 100,000 people. As a result, agencies statewide are more rigorously enforcing traffic laws and increasing penalties for violations. Those charged with these infractions will likely have their cases handled in one of Ocean County's 33 Municipal Court venues.
|
Ocean County 07/2018 – 06/2019 |
Cases Added |
|
DWI Offenses |
1,946 |
|
Traffic |
111,002 |
|
Parking |
32,388 |
“Payable” Violations
Some minor offenses may be resolved without an appearance in court when indicated on the traffic ticket. This involves accepting responsibility for the violation, waiving your right to appear, and submitting the required payment. Recently, the New Jersey Municipal Courts implemented the NJMCdirect online portal that makes it much easier to pay fines electronically.
Driving Record Penalty Points
“Penalty points” are imposed for many traffic offenses. If a motorist accrues 12 points they will face a mandatory suspension of driving privileges. For example, many less serious violations such as failing to observe traffic violations will result in two points being imposed. More serious violations may range up to eight points.
Penalties for More Serious Offenses
- Driving while intoxicated (DWI): Based on the circumstances, first-time violators must pay a fine of between $250 and $500 and must attend an Intoxicated Driver Resource Center (IDRC) program. Offenders may potentially face a maximum of 30 days in jail and must have an ignition interlock device (IID) installed on their vehicle.
- Reckless driving: The penalties include a fine of $50 to $200, five penalty points, and up to 60 days in jail.
- Leaving the scene of an accident (hit-and-run):
- Without injuries involved: A fine of $200 to $400, a six-month suspension of driving privileges, and up to 30 days in jail may be imposed.
- With injuries involved: A fine of $2,500 to $5,000, a 12-month suspension of driving privileges, and up to 180 days in jail may be imposed.
A Failure to Appear in Court or Pay Fines
Defendants who do not appear in court for traffic violations without having reasonable cause may create additional legal problems. Courts may issue a warrant for your arrest and automatically suspend your driving privileges. The same applies to those who do not pay fines that are imposed. Currently, in New Jersey, there are roughly 2.5 million municipal bench warrants associated with these two concerns.
Importance of Experienced Legal Representation
New Jersey's traffic laws continue to evolve and the courts that are responsible for handling these cases are routinely overwhelmed. Busy court administrators may move hurriedly in efforts to process cases without properly considering the individual rights of each defendant. Having legal counsel that is well-versed in this realm of practice will better ensure your right to due process is protected.
Attorney for Motor Vehicle Violations in New Jersey
Have you been charged with a traffic violation and have a pending court appearance? Courts may impose significant penalties on these matters; therefore, it is critical to have support from a seasoned defense lawyer. Contact the Lento Law Firm today at (888) 535-3686 for a consultation.
