Naperville Traffic Accident Defense Lawyer
Compassionate Traffic Charges Lawyer for Violations Related to Car Accidents in Naperville, IL
Most people have been in a car crash at some point in their lives. However, if you are at fault in a car crash, you may be faced with traffic violations or even criminal charges, depending on the nature of the accident. Do not feel as if you are obligated to accept guilt or face the courts alone. A dedicated traffic defense lawyer can provide the representation you need in these situations, working to have the charges against you reduced or dropped.
Attorney Craig L. Boston represents clients accused of traffic crimes and moving violations. With over 15 years of legal experience, Craig has litigated thousands of traffic law cases and achieved successful results for his clients. Over his career, he has served as both a prosecutor and a defense attorney, bringing a unique perspective to defending his clients.
Charges Resulting From a Traffic Accident
The causes behind a traffic accident can vary, and you could be charged with a crime after the fact. Some of these crimes are only penalized with a ticket, while others may result in you being arrested. In either case, you should exercise your right to an attorney. Listed below are some of the more common charges associated with car crashes:
Speeding and Aggravated Speeding
If you exceeded a posted speed limit and subsequently got in a crash, you could be charged with a failure to reduce speed, which is a petty offense with a fine no greater than $1,000. However, speeding 26 miles per hour or more above the limit may result in the more serious charge of aggravated speeding, which is a Class B misdemeanor punishable by up to six months in jail and a fine up to $1,500.
Reckless Driving
The law defines reckless driving as intentionally engaging in dangerous behavior behind the wheel. One of the most common issues involved in these types of charges is texting while driving that led to an accident. Reckless driving charges may also apply if a collision was allegedly caused by risky moves such as swerving between lanes or disregarding traffic signs. If you are convicted of reckless driving, you will have a Class A misdemeanor on your record, and you could face penalties including as much as a year in jail and a fine up to $2,500.
You could face an escalated charge of aggravated reckless driving if your driving allegedly caused "great bodily harm" to another person in an accident. In that case, the offense may be charged as a Class 4 felony, which is punishable by one to three years in prison and a maximum $25,000 fine.
Driving Under the Influence
You can be charged with DUI if you are pulled over and found to have a concentration of alcohol in your blood that is at least .08%. By itself, driving under the influence is a misdemeanor charge, but in some cases, you can be charged with a felony if drunk driving allegedly led to an accident. If you are accused of causing great bodily harm to another person through drunk driving, or if a passenger age 16 or younger in your vehicle was injured, you could be charged with a Class 4 felony.
In the aftermath of a DUI accident, a police officer may ask that you perform certain tests to judge your sobriety, including tests of coordination and a breathalyzer. Though you may feel some pressure to accept, it is important that you exercise your right to speak with an attorney to determine whether you should refuse any tests that could be incriminating.
Speak With a Naperville, Illinois Traffic Accident Lawyer
A car accident can be a massive weight on your shoulders, with the potential for heavy fines and even jail time in some situations. Our dedicated traffic defense attorney can walk you through your case and advocate for your best interests. We will work to have the charges against you reduced or dismissed while helping you avoid long-term penalties.
Attorney Craig L. Boston has a long history of protecting motorists' rights in Naperville. If you have any questions about a traffic violation related to a car accident, contact our office or call 630-445-2295 for a free consultation.