Florida imposes serious penalties for knowingly driving with a suspended license. The first time you’re convicted of this offense, you could end up spending 60 days in the county jail and paying $500 in fines. If you’re convicted a second time, you could spend a year in jail and pay $1,000 in fines.
Thus far, the offense is considered a misdemeanor. But a third conviction is a felony. It can result in a 5-year prison sentence along with $5,000 in fines.
Following are the top four reasons your driver’s license can be suspended. If you were caught driving with a suspended license , the first thing you should do is contact an experienced Florida traffic ticket attorney.
#1 – Conviction For A Grave Offense
If you’re convicted of another traffic-related offense, you can lose your driving privilege as a result. Such offenses include driving while intoxicated (DWI), vehicular manslaughter, and leaving the scene of a car accident in which you’re involved.
#2 – Driving Without Insurance
Auto insurance coverage is mandatory in Florida. If you’re caught driving without it, or are unable to provide proof of coverage when an officer pulls you over, a judge may suspend your license.
#3 – Too Many Points On Your Driving Record
Points are added to your record each time you’re convicted of a traffic-related infraction. If you receive too many points within a short time frame – e.g. 24 points within 36 months – your driving privilege could be put in jeopardy.
#4 – Status As A Habitual Traffic Offender
If you’re convicted of numerous moving violations over a relatively short period, the state of Florida may consider you to be a habitual traffic offender (HTO). And that can result in a driver’s license suspension.
These aren’t the only reasons your license can be suspended or revoked in Florida. Suspensions can also be ordered by the court for failing to pay child support, failing to pay court fines, and even convictions for petty theft.
The Orlando traffic ticket lawyers at Skubiak & Rivas have successfully defended clients against traffic-related charges for decades. If you’ve been charged with driving with a suspended license, we’re ready to aggressively defend your case. Call us at 407-894-4449 or fill out this form to schedule a no-risk consultation.
