Summary Offenses & Traffic Violation Lawyer in State College, PA

It can be tempting to pay a speeding ticket and move on. However, traffic tickets of all kinds add points to your Pennsylvania driving record. When you accumulate a certain number of points, your driver’s license will be suspended. Plus, unresolved points can increase your car insurance payments by thousands of dollars a year.

At Decker Bradburn, our defense lawyers can help. We represent clients accused of a wide variety of traffic violations and related offenses in State College and the surrounding areas of Pennsylvania. We have the knowledge and energy to resolve cases involving:

• Speeding
• Reckless or distracted driving
• Hit-and-run accidents
• Commercial driver’s license (CDL) violations
• Driving on a suspended license
• Driving under the influence (DUI)

Representing Both Local and Out-of-State Drivers

We regularly represent Penn State students and other local residents, as well as out-of-state drivers, facing traffic tickets and citations in Pennsylvania. In many cases, we are able to resolve the situation for out-of-state clients in a way that allows them to continue on their journeys. Our attorneys handle court appearances and legal details, allowing clients to focus on their lives.

Defending Against All Types of Summary Offenses

In Pennsylvania, you may receive a paper citation (similar to a traffic ticket) for minor criminal offenses. These are called “summary offenses” and typically carry a maximum penalty of up to 90 days in jail and a fine of $300. Decker Bradburn, Attorneys at Law, represents college students and other individuals charged with:

• Underage alcohol-related offenses
• Public drunkenness and open container violations
• Retail theft
• Disorderly conduct and criminal mischief
• False IDs

Our lawyers will work to negotiate a favorable resolution for you before the matter is presented to a magisterial district judge.

Charges Involving Speeding Violations

Contrary to common belief, speeding violations can lead to significant consequences, ranging from fines to points on your driving record and even license suspension. The severity of the charge depends on how much over the speed limit a driver was traveling and whether aggravating factors, like reckless driving or speeding in a work zone, are present.

Common speeding charges in Pennsylvania:

• Basic speeding violation: Exceeding the posted speed limit
• Excessive speeding: Driving 31 mph or more over the limit (may result in a mandatory court appearance)
• Speeding in a work zone: Costly fines and penalties apply
• Speeding in a school zone: Heavier penalties due to the risks posed to children
• Driving too fast for conditions: Can lead to a citation, even if within the posted limit

With sound legal guidance, you can defend yourself from a worst-case outcome. Defenses to consider include:

• Faulty speed detection equipment: Challenging the accuracy of radar or speed cameras
• Improperly posted speed limits: Contesting speeding charges if the signage was missing or unclear
• Necessity defense: In rare cases, proving that speeding was necessary due to an emergency
• Officer error: Calling out mistakes in speed measurement or identification of the vehicle

Understanding the nature of your speeding charge and available defenses can help mitigate penalties. Consulting an experienced attorney can be crucial in protecting your driving record.

Understanding Pennsylvania’s Points System

Pennsylvania uses a points system to track driving violations – accumulating points can lead to corrective actions or license suspension. Each offense carries a specific point value, and once a driver reaches six points, they may be required to take a written exam or attend a driver improvement course.

Key aspects of Pennsylvania’s points system:

• Points accumulation: Speeding violations typically add between two to five points to a driver’s record
• License suspension thresholds: At 11 points, a driver faces suspension, with the duration depending on prior suspensions
• Point reduction: Three points are removed for every 12 months of violation-free driving
• Special penalties for youths: Drivers under 18 face automatic suspension if they accumulate six points or exceed the speed limit by 26 mph or more

Managing points effectively can prevent license suspension and increased insurance rates. If you have received a traffic citation, talk to our team about how to minimize the impact on your driving privileges.

Call Decker Bradburn for a Free Consultation

It doesn’t cost you anything to learn more about your options and our services. Schedule a free initial consultation with one of our traffic violation attorneys in State College by calling 814-308-8895. You can also send us an email, and we will respond promptly.