Bentonville Traffic Violation Lawyer

Protecting Your Driving Rights in Arkansas

Traffic charges encompass a wide range of offenses, and those charged may be confused as to how to handle them; but don’t panic. In many cases, traffic citations can be challenged, reduced, or even dismissed through effective representation.

Common Traffic Violations in Arkansas

• Driving without a license
• Reckless driving in Arkansas
• Speeding
• Hit and run
• Lack of driver’s insurance
• Breaking open container laws

By contacting an attorney knowledgeable in traffic violation matters, you could save yourself significant time and money. We treat all of our clients with respect, even giving them access to our personal cell phones so that they can reach us whenever they need. Whatever Arkansas traffic violation you are facing, we can provide personalized legal counsel to help pursue a favorable outcome.

Need help after receiving an Arkansas traffic violation? Contact Nelson & Marks PLLC today at (479) 202-4541 to work with our Bentonville traffic lawyers.

Understanding Penalties for Traffic Violations in Arkansas

In Arkansas, it is in your best interest to plead “not guilty” to most traffic crimes. Trying to deal with your traffic charge without an attorney’s help can have costly results and may even negatively affect your future both personally and professionally.

Traffic violation penalties can result in a number of consequences, including:

• The loss of your driver’s license
• Additional points added to your driving record
• Loss of employment if your job involved operating a vehicle
• Jail time

Consequences of Reckless Driving in Arkansas

Reckless driving is a serious offense in Arkansas. It is defined as operating a vehicle in a manner that shows a willful or wanton disregard for the safety of others. This can include driving at excessive speeds, weaving in and out of traffic, or engaging in other dangerous behaviors while behind the wheel. It is one of the leading causes of motor vehicle accidents and fatalities on state roads, endangering the lives of drivers and other road users. If you are charged with reckless driving in Arkansas, it is important to seek the guidance of an experienced attorney.  

Is Reckless Driving a Felony in Arkansas?

In Arkansas, reckless driving is considered a criminal offense and can be classified as either a misdemeanor or felony depending on the circumstances. A reckless driving conviction in Arkansas typically carries a fine of up to $1000 and/or jail time of up to 90 days for misdemeanors or up to six years for felonies. Factors such as the driver's age, speed, and location are all considered when determining the charge's severity. In addition, any additional infractions that may have occurred during the commission of the reckless driving charge can further increase the severity of the punishment.

Defining Unsafe Driving in Arkansas

In Arkansas, unsafe driving refers to a variety of behaviors that endanger the safety of road users as well as the driver. Common examples of unsafe driving practices include:

• Speeding: Exceeding the posted speed limit or driving at a faster rate than is safe for the road and weather conditions.
• Reckless Driving: Operating a vehicle in a manner that displays a disregard for the safety of others, such as weaving in and out of traffic, tailgating, or engaging in other aggressive driving behaviors.
• Distracted Driving: Using a cellphone, texting, eating, or engaging in any other activity that diverts your attention from the road while driving.
• Driving Under the Influence (DUI): Driving while intoxicated, drugged, or under the influence of any substance that impairs your ability to drive properly.
• Running Red Lights or Stop Signs: Failing to stop at red lights or stop signs, potentially leading to accidents and collisions.
• Following Too Closely: Following too closely to the vehicle in front of you reduces your reaction time and increases the risk of rear-end collisions.
• Failure to Yield: Not yielding the right of way when required, such as at intersections or pedestrian crosswalks.
• Aggressive Driving: Engaging in aggressive behaviors like road rage, which can escalate situations and lead to accidents.
• Unsafe Lane Changes: Changing lanes without signaling or when it's not safe to do so, potentially causing collisions.
• Driving Without Proper Equipment: Operating a vehicle without functioning headlights, brake lights, turn signals, or other necessary equipment.
• Driving on the Shoulder: Bypassing traffic or using the shoulder of the road for any reason other than an emergency.

Depending on the specific violation, Arkansas has varying penalties for unsafe driving. The penalties could include fines, points on your driving record, suspension of your license, mandatory traffic school, or even criminal charges if your violation is severe, such as a DUI.