Traffic Crimes
Traffic Crimes Are Criminal Charges — Not Just Tickets.
Reckless driving, hit and run, and driving while suspended are criminal offenses in Oregon. A conviction means a criminal record, potential jail time, and serious consequences for your license and insurance.
The Difference Between a Ticket and a Crime
Most traffic violations are civil infractions — you pay a fine and move on. But Oregon traffic crimes are a different category entirely. They're prosecuted in criminal court, they carry potential jail sentences, and they create a permanent criminal record. Reckless driving is a Class A misdemeanor. Hit and run involving injury is a felony. Driving while suspended can be a misdemeanor or felony depending on the reason for the suspension. These charges deserve a criminal defense attorney, not just a traffic ticket lawyer.
How I Defend Traffic Crime Cases
Challenging the Facts
Traffic crime charges often rely on officer observations and witness accounts. I examine the evidence critically — dashcam footage, witness credibility, road and weather conditions.
Reducing Charges
In many cases, a traffic crime can be negotiated down to a civil infraction or a lesser criminal charge, keeping a serious conviction off your record.
Protecting Your License
Traffic crime convictions can trigger additional DMV consequences on top of the criminal penalties. I work to protect your driving privileges alongside the criminal defense.
Driving While Suspended Defense
DWS charges sometimes arise from suspensions the driver didn't know about. I investigate the notice history and challenge the prosecution's proof of knowledge.
Traffic Crimes I Handle
- Reckless Driving
- Hit and Run (Class C Felony if injury involved)
- Driving While Suspended or Revoked
- Reckless Endangerment
- Fleeing or Attempting to Elude Police
- Failure to Perform Duties of a Driver
- Racing on a Highway
Free Consultation
Call or email to discuss your case. No pressure, no jargon.
Charged with a Traffic Crime?
Don't assume a traffic charge is minor. Call for a free consultation and find out what you're actually facing — and what can be done about it.