A traffic violation in South Carolina can remain on a driving record for up to five years. The length of time a traffic ticket stays on a driving record is dependent on the type of charges the driver is facing. In all situations involving injuries, a South Carolina car accident lawyer from Shelly Leeke Law Firm can be of assistance for your case.
Infractions on a Driving Record in South Carolina
A traffic ticket is a charge from the police that a driver has violated the traffic laws of the state in some way. Typically, these infractions lead to points that are added to a license, though there are some ways to remove those points. The record of the infraction can remain for years, therefore impacting the driver’s future in numerous ways. Those notations on a driving record can impact insurance rates and further consequences if the driver violates the law again.
It is important to note that traffic violations themselves are not the ultimate problem in these instances. That is, the points can play a much more serious role in what happens to a driver. If a driver receives too many points within a short period of time, that could lead to license suspension or revocation.
Traffic violations can range widely from minor mistakes to serious injury-related losses. This impacts the number of points received as well as the other charges a driver may face. Be sure to read our FAQs to learn more about our firm and how a car accident lawyer in South Carolina can help you when facing injuries.
Common Traffic Violations and Points in South Carolina
South Carolina, like most states, has a comprehensive list of rules that all drivers must follow that, ultimately, aim to keep everyone on the roadways safe. Any time a driver breaks one of these rules, they could face a traffic citation. The following are some of the most common vehicle license violations and the number of points a driver can expect to have added to their license as a part of this process:
- Speeding: 2 points added for those traveling 1 and 10 miles over the limit
- Speeding: 4 points added for those traveling 11 to 15 miles over the limit
- Speeding: 6 points added for those traveling 16 or more miles over the speed limit
- Reckless driving: 6 points added to your license
- Driving without a valid license: 2 points added
- Running a red light: Up to 4 points added
- Failure to yield citations: up to 4 points added
- Following the driver in front of you too closely: 4 points added
- Texting while driving a vehicle: 2 points added
In addition to the points added to a license, drivers expect additional consequences. Most of these violations also have fines associated with them, ranging from $100 up to $500 or more. Also note that the driver may be faced with additional charges, points, and fines if they have been charged in the past for other speeding tickets or have numerous points on their license.
Traffic Violations on a Driving Record Are Worrisome for Injured Motorists
No one should overlook the importance of having inaccurate traffic violations on a driving record. Having even a few points on a driver’s license can create numerous complications. Some of the ways these violations can impact a driver include and can indicate a problematic driver for someone injured in a crash:
- Too many points can lead to having driving privileges suspended or revoked
- If driving professionally, violations could cause the driver to lose their commercial driving privileges
- A traffic violation could stay on a record for five years, but that ticket could still be used against the driver in court, if there is reason to do so, for up to 10 years (which can be beneficial to the injured driver in a crash)
- If a driver has a traffic violation related to DUI or some type of reckless offense, especially if someone else was injured, these are never removed from driving records in South Carolina
- Those who have multiple violations on their record may face higher fines as a result
A simple ticket can help a driver avoid a serious South Carolina speeding car accident, and it can be problematic for anyone behind the wheel of a vehicle. For those who operate their vehicle for work or need to be able to drive to school, these points are costly. They could be at risk of losing their CDL, forcing them to find work in another profession.
Dealing with Problematic Drivers After a Crash
A problematic driver can make your life difficult if you are injured in a crash with one. For example, if the driver has so many points on their record that their license has been suspended, they might not have the proper auto insurance coverage required by South Carolina. This could lead you to struggle to pay the bills for your medical care and lost wages if you miss time at work due to your injury.
After a crash with an uninsured/underinsured driver because of too many traffic tickets on their record, you need to speak to a car accident lawyer in South Carolina from Shelly Leeke Law Firm. An attorney can ensure that your rights are protected and that you have a strong case for compensation. The attorney can handle all of the following communication on your behalf so you can focus on recovery:
- Contact with the other driver involved in the accident
- Securing the police report and talking to the investigating officer
- Contacting the other driver’s insurance company (if they have coverage)
- Negotiating with the other driver’s lawyer
- Working with expert witnesses to build a strong case on your behalf
Talk to an Attorney Today
Traffic tickets can remain on your record for up to five years, depending on the type of ticket issued. Whether you suffered an injury in a crash, were simply involved, or wound up being found at fault, it is best to review all of your options. A South Carolina car accident lawyer at Shelly Leeke Law Firm is here to help you when injured in an accident, so contact us today to schedule a consultation.
