Traffic Citations and Your Driving Record in Illinois

 Posted on May 24, 2017 in Traffic Offenses

Standard moving violations will usually stay on your driving record for up to five years from the time you are convicted, according to the Illinois Secretary of state. Standard moving violations include:

• Speeding;
• Disobeying a stop sign;
• Disobeying a traffic light; and
• Improper lane usage.

However,traffic violations whose penalties result in a suspension or revocation can stay on your driving record for at least seven years. That timeline will not start until the date you get your license reinstated. The caveat to that general rule are traffic violations that include alcohol or drugs, like a DUI for example. Those kinds of convictions may stay on your Illinois driving record for the rest of your life.

Is There Any Way I Can Keep a Traffic Ticket Off My Driving Record?

That is a question for your Cook County traffic violation attorney. Generally, the only way to accomplish that is to receive court supervision as a punishment for your traffic violation or getting the charge dropped or dismissed.

Traffic violation convictions not only cause your insurance rates to increase but they also count as points towards getting your license suspended. When faced with a traffic violation, it is important that you speak with an experienced and knowledgeable traffic violation defense lawyer to give you the best shot at keeping traffic infractions off of your record.

Understand Your Rights

It is important that you understand what rights you have at a traffic stop. When a police officer stops you and beginsasking questions, it is usually not polite conversation. He or she isbeginning their investigation into whether or not you have committed a moving violation or a more serious offense.

The majority of convictions in Illinois occuras a result of an arrestee giving more incriminating evidence than was necessary to the police. Questions that are appropriateto answer include but are not limited to the following:

• What is your name?
• Where are you going?
• Do you have your driver’s license?
• Do you have proof of insurance?
• Do you know why I have stopped you? (simple yes or no)

Questions and request intended to incriminate you include:

• Can I search your car?
• Have you been drinking?
• Do you have anything illegal in the car?

When You Need a Lawyer

The criminal justice system is a complex terrain that requires a knowledgeable and experienced Rolling Meadows criminal defense lawyer. Attorney Christopher M. Cosley is a respected and proven attorney.At The Law Offices of Christopher M. Cosley, you will receive dedicated and compassionate representation. Contact us at 847-253-3100, 24 hours a day, to schedule your consultation and get the representation you deserve.

Source:

http://www.ilga.gov/legislation/ilcs/ilcs3.asp?ChapterID=49&ActID=1815