What to Do If You're Arrested for a Traffic Offense

Being detained for a driving violation can be a perplexing and trying event.  Although many individuals believe that traffic violations are somewhat minor, some offenses—especially those involving aggravating circumstances like outstanding warrants, driving under the influence, or reckless driving—may cause arrest.  Under such circumstances, it is imperative to know your rights and next actions.

 Whether it's a more severe infraction or a routine traffic stop gone bad, the process after an arrest can be taxing.  This tutorial will walk you through the procedures to follow should you be detained for a traffic violation, including how Bail Bonds in Houston Texas could assist in your release from jail.

Steps to Take Immediately After an Arrest for a Traffic Offense

Stay Calm and Cooperate with Law Enforcement

 If you are detained for a traffic violation, first and most importantly, be cool.  Either panicking or fighting arrest will simply make things worse.  Recall that you are free to remain mute; hence, if you feel uneasy or doubtful about the circumstances, you should use that freedom.

 Work with the arresting officials; avoid providing any pointless information.  Though you must identify yourself when requested, you are not obliged to respond to every query.  You should not quarrel with the police since this could be considered an obstruction.

Understand the Charges Against You

Once you are arrested, you should be clear about exactly what you are accused of.  Traffic violations can range from small infractions to major criminal penalties; knowledge of the seriousness of the charge can assist you in negotiating the process.  Among the typical causes of arrest during a traffic stop are:

• Driving under the influence (DUI)

• Reckless driving or road rage incidents

• Driving with a suspended or revoked license

• Outstanding warrants for previous violations

 Ask the officials for an explanation if you are not clear about the type of the charges.  They have to let you know about the charges against you during your arrest.

The Bail Process After a Traffic Offense Arrest

Can You Be Granted Bail for a Traffic Offense?

The bail hearing comes next in the procedure should you be arrested for a traffic violation.  Many times, bail will be granted—especially if the offense is not a significant criminal or does not involve aggressive behavior.  Bail serves to guarantee that you show up for your trial or hearing on returning to court.

The judge will probably decide a bond amount for less severe traffic violations depending on your criminal record, flight risk, and the particular accusation you are facing.  Bail terms may be tougher in situations involving DUI or dangerous driving, though.

Using Bail Bonds in Houston TX

 Should bail be granted but you find yourself unable to pay the entire amount, Bail Bonds in Houston, Texas can provide assistance.  Usually charging a non-refundable fee, normally approximately 10% of the entire bail amount, a bail bondsman will post your bail.  This lets you leave jail until your court date.

A bail bond guarantees to the court your appearance at your hearing.  Should you miss show-up, the bail bondsman will lose the money paid on your behalf and you will be re-arrested.  Should you be unable to pay the entire amount, a bail bondsman can expedite the procedure and offer a temporary fix for securing your release.

What Happens After Bail is Set?

Attend Your Court Hearing

 You must show up for your appointed court appearances once you have been let go on bond.  Ignoring a court appearance could cause you to be arrested with a warrant and result in extra penalties including contempt of court.  Usually, your bondsman would ask you to check in often to make sure you satisfy court criteria if you purchased bail bonds in Houston Texas to guarantee your release.

The judge at your court hearing will decide your case's result.  The offense will determine whether you might be offered the opportunity to pay a fine, take part in traffic school, or suffer further penalties.  In more severe circumstances, such as DUI or careless driving, a conviction can result in increased fines, community service, or even incarceration.

Legal Representation

 Although a driving violation would appear simple, it's always a good idea to get legal counsel.  Having a qualified attorney will help to ensure that your rights are safeguarded and that you know all of your legal choices, even if you think the matter is trivial.  Sometimes a lawyer might be able to negotiate a plea agreement or lessen the fines.

Special Considerations for DUI and Reckless Driving Charges

DUI Arrests

 Should you get arrested for DUI, the penalties might be far more severe.  DUI arrests sometimes result in tougher release restrictions and larger bail sums.  This is so because DUI convictions are regarded as detrimental to public safety and the court could impose extra requirements including mandatory alcohol classes, monitoring systems, or even an ignition interlock device.

Should you be caught for DUI, you need legal counsel to help you negotiate the court system.  Given the nature of the offense, bond Bonds in Houston Texas can also assist you to get your release even if the bond amount is larger.

Reckless Driving

Another major traffic infraction with the potential for an arrest is reckless driving.  Should you be discovered driving carelessly, jeopardizing the lives of others, the court might levy heavy penalties, license suspension, or perhaps jail time.  Should you be detained for careless driving, you might have to show up in court to respond to the allegations and maybe face legal action.

Like a DUI arrest, Bail Bonds in Houston TX can help you financially to guarantee your release while you wait for your court date.

Conclusion

Although being detained for a traffic violation might be taxing, negotiating the legal system depends on knowing your rights and the actions to follow thereafter.  Whether your violation is a simple traffic ticket or something more severe like DUI or reckless driving, you should keep cool, know your charges, and, when needed, consult a lawyer.

Should bail be decided upon and you find yourself unable to pay it,  bail bonds services can assist in your release from jail.  Working with a bail bondsman will help you to guarantee the money required for your release, thereby allowing you the time to be ready for your court appearance.

Recall that resolving your case and avoiding more legal issues depend on your attending your court hearing and following all legal procedures.  With the correct help, you can negotiate these difficult circumstances and aim for a settlement that least affects your life.