Traffic Violation Defense Lawyer in Northwest Georgia
Protecting Your License, Record, and Future After a Serious Traffic Offense
Even a single traffic offense can spiral into lasting legal and financial consequences — especially if it involves reckless behavior, injury, or a suspended license. At Walt Moffitt Law, we defend individuals in Northwest Georgia who are facing serious traffic-related criminal charges. Whether you’ve been accused of reckless driving, leaving the scene, or vehicular homicide, we are ready to protect your rights.
Traffic Violation Defense Attorney Serving Northwest Georgia
We represent clients throughout Walker, Dade, Catoosa, Chattooga, and Whitfield Counties for the following charges:
Driving Without a License
Operating a vehicle without ever having obtained a valid Georgia driver’s license can lead to misdemeanor charges, fines, and potential jail time — especially for repeat offenses.
Driving With a Suspended License
If your license was previously suspended due to DUI, unpaid tickets, or failure to appear in court, driving is considered a criminal act — not just a traffic infraction. Convictions can lead to jail time and extended suspension periods.
Reckless Driving
Defined as operating a vehicle with disregard for safety, reckless driving is a misdemeanor punishable by up to 12 months in jail, fines, and license points — often charged in connection with speeding or aggressive behavior.
Hit and Run
Leaving the scene of an accident without exchanging information or offering aid can result in a misdemeanor or felony, depending on injuries or damages. Convictions may carry license suspension, jail, and hefty fines.
Fleeing or Attempting to Elude
Attempting to escape law enforcement during a stop or pursuit is a serious offense. This is typically a felony in Georgia and can result in license revocation, jail time, and a criminal record.
Vehicular Homicide
When a person is killed due to negligent or reckless driving, the result is often a felony vehicular homicide charge, which may carry prison time and driver’s license revocation.
Serious Injury by Vehicle (SIBV)
If a person sustains significant injuries in a crash where reckless driving, DUI, or other violations are involved, this charge — often paired with vehicular assault — can result in felony penalties and a lifelong criminal record.
Why You Need a Criminal Defense Lawyer for a Traffic Violation
Most people assume traffic charges are simple — but in Georgia, many traffic offenses are criminal in nature, not just ticketable infractions. That means you could face:
- Jail or prison time
- License suspension or revocation
- Expensive fines and surcharges
- Insurance increases
- A permanent criminal record
Having an experienced defense attorney ensures that you have a voice in court and that your rights are protected every step of the way.
Criminal Defense
Tell Us About Your Case for a FREE Review
Traffic Violation Defense Contact Form
How Walt Moffitt Law Can Help You Fight a Traffic Violation
At Walt Moffitt Law, we know the local court systems, the prosecutors, and the unique legal challenges tied to traffic cases. Our firm provides:
- Thorough investigation of the charges and circumstances
- Challenges to police procedures and traffic stop legality
- Negotiation for reduced charges or dismissal
- Aggressive defense in felony-level cases (like SIBV or vehicular homicide)
- Help restoring or protecting your driving privileges
We proudly serve clients in Rossville, Ringgold, LaFayette, Dalton, Trenton, and Summerville and all across Northwest Georgia.
Gore Area Traffic Laws in Georgia
Gore areas—marked with diagonal white lines near exits or merges—are strictly off-limits in Georgia. These zones serve as safety buffers between lanes moving at different speeds. Driving through or crossing a gore area is not only dangerous but also a traffic offense punishable by fines and points on your license.
In Northwest Georgia, law enforcement watches these zones closely on highways like I-75. Always stay in your lane and use proper merge/exits to avoid legal trouble. If you’ve been cited for a gore violation, Walt Moffitt Law can help minimize the penalties.
Hit and Run Charges in Georgia
Leaving the scene of an accident—whether you caused it or not—can result in criminal charges under Georgia law. A hit-and-run conviction could lead to:
- Jail time
- License suspension
- Civil penalties
Even if you think the damage is minor, Georgia law requires you to stop, exchange information, and render aid if necessary. If you're facing a hit-and-run charge in Catoosa, Dade, or Walker County, it’s critical to get legal support immediately. For more information about hit and run charges and its legal intricacies, click here to view our blog post.
Reckless Driving in Georgia
Reckless driving is defined as operating a vehicle with willful disregard for the safety of others. This can include excessive speeding, aggressive weaving, or ignoring traffic signals. It's a misdemeanor offense in Georgia that carries:
- Up to 12 months in jail
- Fines up to $1,000
- 4 points on your driving record
We defend clients charged with reckless driving across Whitfield, Chattooga, and surrounding counties—helping reduce or dismiss the charges when possible. Click here to find our blog post that provides more information on reckless driving charges in Georgia.
Fleeing and Eluding Law Enforcement
Failing to stop when signaled by law enforcement is a serious charge in Georgia, often escalating to a felony if high-speed or danger is involved. Penalties include:
- Up to 5 years in prison (for aggravated cases)
- Hefty fines
- License suspension
Don't try to face this charge alone—Walt Moffitt is experienced in defending high-stakes traffic cases across Northwest Georgia. Click here for more information about fleeing and eluding in Georgia.
Following Too Closely (Tailgating)
Georgia law prohibits drivers from following another vehicle more closely than is reasonable and prudent, especially in heavy traffic or bad weather. A tailgating ticket can lead to:
- Points on your license
- Increased insurance rates
- Civil liability if a crash occurs
We help clients show mitigating circumstances or fight citations issued unfairly.
Improper Lane Change
Improper lane changes include:
- Failing to signal
- Changing lanes in intersections
- Cutting off another vehicle
While this may seem like a minor offense, it can be cited in accident reports and cause legal complications. A single charge may result in 3 points on your license. We assist drivers in contesting or minimizing these citations throughout Ringgold and Dalton.
No Car Insurance (Driving Without Insurance)
In Georgia, all drivers are legally required to carry minimum liability insurance. Driving without it is a misdemeanor, punishable by:
- Fines
- License suspension
- Vehicle impoundment
If you were uninsured due to a lapse or misunderstanding, we can help present your case and reduce penalties. For more information about driving without insurance, click here to view our blog post.
Right on Red Violations
Turning right on red is legal in Georgia unless posted otherwise, but you must come to a full stop and yield to pedestrians and oncoming traffic. Failure to do so can lead to:
- Traffic tickets
- Liability in an accident
- Points on your license
This often misunderstood violation is commonly cited in cities like Fort Oglethorpe and Summerville—know your rights if you’re ticketed.
Stunt Driving / Exhibition of Speed
Georgia recently passed laws targeting “stunt driving” and “exhibition of speed,” including:
- Donuts or burnouts
- Racing on public roads
- Excessive engine revving
These charges can lead to misdemeanor or felony consequences, vehicle impoundment, and jail time. We represent young drivers and car enthusiasts facing these charges in NW Georgia. Click here for more information about stunt driving laws in Georgia.
Stop Sign Violations
Rolling through stop signs—also known as a “California stop”—can result in 3 points on your license and a fine. More importantly, it increases accident risk at intersections.
If you're ticketed for not coming to a complete stop, especially in school zones or neighborhoods, we may be able to help contest the citation and protect your record.
Distracted Driving Charges in Georgia
Georgia law prohibits using your phone or engaging in other distractions while driving, including:
- Texting or holding a phone
- Eating or grooming behind the wheel
- Manually adjusting GPS or music
These violations can result in fines, license points, and increased insurance rates. We help drivers in NW Georgia fight distracted driving charges and protect their records. Click here for more information about Georgia’s distracted driving laws.
Don’t Let One Mistake Ruin Your Future
If you've been charged with a traffic-related crime in Northwest Georgia, time is critical. The right defense strategy can protect your license, your record, and your freedom.
Or Call Now
FAQs About Traffic Violations in Georgia
Have more questions about traffic violations in Northwest Georgia? Call Walt Moffitt Law at (706) 841-7222 or fill out our online form for clear answers and legal support tailored to your case.
Can I go to jail for a traffic violation in Georgia?
Yes. Many traffic offenses — like reckless driving, hit and run, or driving with a suspended license — are criminal charges that can lead to jail time.
Will I lose my license if I’m convicted of a traffic violation in Georgia?
Possibly. Some offenses (like fleeing or vehicular homicide) carry mandatory license suspension or revocation upon conviction.
Can I fight a traffic charge even if I was speeding or didn’t have a license?
Yes. There are often legal defenses or procedural errors that can be used to challenge the charge or reduce the penalties.
What’s the difference between a traffic ticket and a criminal traffic charge?
Traffic tickets are typically civil infractions (e.g., minor speeding). Criminal traffic charges (e.g., reckless driving or DUI) can lead to arrest, jail, and a criminal record.
Should I go to court alone for a traffic charge?
No. Even for a misdemeanor, a criminal defense attorney can help you avoid the worst penalties and may even be able to get the charges dismissed or reduced.
What’s considered an illegal lane change in Georgia?
Improper lane changes in Georgia are governed by O.C.G.A. § 40-6-48, which requires that drivers stay within their lane unless it's safe to move. Common violations include:
- Failing to signal before changing lanes
- Weaving between lanes in traffic
- Changing lanes in an intersection
- Cutting off another vehicle without adequate space
If you’re ticketed, an attorney can help assess whether your movement was legal based on traffic conditions, signage, or officer discretion.
What does Georgia law say about tailgating (following too closely)?
Georgia's O.C.G.A. § 40-6-49 prohibits following another vehicle more closely than is reasonable and prudent. This is based on factors like:
- Speed
- Traffic density
- Road and weather conditions
Violations can add 3 points to your license and may significantly increase insurance premiums. If a rear-end collision occurs, this charge is often issued.
Can I turn right on red in Georgia?
Yes—Georgia law permits right turns on red after a complete stop, unless a posted sign prohibits it. However, you must:
- Yield to pedestrians and oncoming traffic
- Only proceed when the way is clear
Failing to do so can result in a traffic citation and points on your license.
What happens if I run a stop sign in Georgia?
Under O.C.G.A. § 40-6-72, drivers must come to a full stop at stop signs and yield to any traffic already in the intersection. Violations can result in:
- Fines and court fees
- 3 points on your license
- Increased insurance rates
You may be able to contest the ticket if your view was obstructed or if the stop was legally adequate but misunderstood by the officer.