3 Nonmoving Violations That You Can Get Additional Tickets for When Pulled Over

While driving, you would probably expect to get pulled over and ticketed if you were speeding, running a red light, or not obeying common traffic laws. However, once you are pulled over on the side of the road, a police officer may also issue you additional tickets and fines for things known as nonmoving violations. These violations can lead to hundreds of dollars in fines and eventually become a permanent part of your driving record. By being aware of the following three nonmoving violations, you can prevent the extra tickets and fines if you get pulled over. Along with being aware of these violations, you can work with a traffic law attorney to help get them dismissed from your case.

Missing License

One of the first things an officer will ask for when pulling you over is proof that you have a driver's license. If you have forgotten your license or cannot locate it, then you may be fined for not having it in your possession. For example, Florida state law indicates that you must have the license in your possession at all times when you are driving or you may be subject to a fine. During this type of nonmoving violation, a police officer is often supposed to take your fingerprints to help prove that you're the one who is the actual driver. If this is not taken, then a traffic law attorney can help get the case dismissed.

Even if you do have your license, the condition of the license could lead to a ticket and nonmoving violation charge. For example, your license may be worn or faded so you cannot see the image and information on it. If this is the case, then you're supposed to get a replacement ID from your local DMV. By working with an attorney, you may be able to get the ID replaced before your case and have the fines dropped all together.

Unorganized Insurance & Registration

Police officers are often on a time constraint. When you're getting pulled over, they want to see your insurance and registration as soon as possible. If you cannot provide it in a reasonable time, then the officer may give you a violation anyway. The best way to avoid this nonmoving violation is by keeping your documents organized and placed in an easy-to-access location. A plastic zip-lock bag in the glove box is ideal for holding the items and keeping them for quick access. If you were charged with this violation but had the items present, then an attorney can represent your case and help get the charges dismissed. Impatience does not serve as proper evidence, so this can help remove the fines from your record.

Parking Areas

When a police officer flashes their lights behind you and indicates that you need to pull over, it's important to select a safe area that is away from traffic. You should also be aware of the surroundings and parking spots that can lead to additional nonmoving violations. For example, if you pull over in front of a fire hydrant, you could receive a parking violation for pulling too close to the hydrant. Additional spots that you should avoid when getting pulled over include driveway entrances, handicap parking spots, and anywhere near a no-parking zone.

If you were fined for this parking, an attorney can help showcase your distress and eagerness to pull over for the officer when the lights flashed. You likely did not park in one of these areas on purpose, and hopefully the charges can get dismissed. If your vehicle remained running the whole time, it may not have been technically considered parked, and this is another way an attorney can help eliminate the fines.

By providing the exact details of your case to your traffic law attorney, you can be fully represented and help keep your driving record as clean as possible.