However, when a moving violation results in injury to another person, then the matter becomes a serious one and you could face criminal consequences of you are found guilty.
A charge of moving violation causing injury can be life changing, resulting in both criminal and civil litigation. If you have been arrested after your moving violation resulted in the injury of another, it is important to call the Michigan traffic violation defense lawyers with Davis Law Group immediately.
What is a Moving Violation Causing Injury?
Under Michigan criminal law the offense of moving violation causing injury occurs when a driver commits a moving violation that results in serious bodily injury to another person. The elements of the crime are important to establishing a case against you and the prosecution must prove:
- That you committed a moving violation; and
- That the moving violation was the cause of the injury.
Also very important to the offense is the nature of the injury. To satisfy a criminal court the injury must be such that it impairs important bodily functions that affect the person’s quality of life.
For the purpose of proving that you committed a moving violation, at the time of driving you would have done or omitted to do something in breach of the motor vehicle code or local ordinance.
Can I Go to Jail for a Moving Violation Causing Injury
In Michigan, the offense of moving violation causing injury is a misdemeanor. Nevertheless, the penalties can include jail time if you are found guilty. While there are a number of factors that a judge will take into consideration when deciding on whether to impose prison time, the law allows up to 93 days behind bars for the offense of moving violation causing injury.
Other penalties will include:
- A fine up to $500;
- Points on your driver’s license; and
- One-year driver’s license suspension.
The best way to avoid jail time is to secure a not guilty verdict. However, if you are found guilty or choose to plead guilty, it is important that you have a criminal defense lawyer by your side. Having legal representation during a sentencing hearing can significantly improve your chances of reduced or no amount of time behind bars.
