Can Commiting A Crime Cost You Your Drivers’ License? What You Need To Know

When it comes to punishment for a criminal act, one thing people may not consider is how it will affect his or her legal ability to drive. The criminal act does not even have to necessarily have anything to do with operating a motor vehicle to affect your driving privileges. Some crimes that can cause you problems include not paying child support or not paying parking tickets. Here are some things to keep in mind about driving after committing a crime:

How Criminal Charges Affect Your Ability To Drive

If you are found guilty of certain criminal acts, it is possible that your license will be suspended. Partaking in many activities can impact your ability to drive either permanently or temporarily. Keep in mind that you'll most likely still be found guilty in cases like these. This means that even if you plea-bargained for a lighter punishment, your driver's license is still at risk. Habitual traffic offenders can also cause you to lose your license for up to several years in some cases. A habitual traffic offender is someone who is regularly sentenced for regularly violating traffic laws. This can include driving with a suspended license or causing a hit and run accident.

While many cases can be temporary, there are some cases that can completely end your right to drive. Evading a police officer in a driving pursuit is one way to lose your license. Excessive cases of drinking and driving can also relieve you of your license.

When The Crime Has Nothing To Do With Driving

In many states, you can lose your license for non-driving crimes. If you do not pay your child support, you can have your license suspended for a period of time. Possession of drugs, whether they are inside a vehicle with you or not, can also affect your driving privileges.

Getting Your Driving Privileges Reinstated

The ability to get your driving privileges returned to you will depend on the state in which you were sentenced. It will also depend on the crime you are found guilty of committing. In many cases, you will get your license back after a certain period of time determined by a judge. In egregious cases, however, your license may be permanently revoked without the chance for reinstatement.

You will need to work with your attorney to see if and when you can get your driving privileges back after committing a crime. By all means, do not drive illegally while you are waiting for your license to be reinstated. You could end up losing it permanently if you are caught.

Contact an attorney's office like Blomberg Benson & Garrett for more information and assistance.  


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