Silence The Sirens: Protect Yourself From Wisconsin’s Traffic Penalties

Traffic crimes in Wisconsin cover a wide range of violations related to the operation of motor vehicles, ranging from minor infractions to serious felonies. These offenses are governed by state statutes and local ordinances. The penalties will depend on the nature of the violation.

Common examples of traffic crimes include:

• Operating while intoxicated (OWI): Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. This is one of the most serious traffic offenses, with penalties increasing significantly for repeat offenses or if injury/death occurs.
• Reckless driving: Endangering safety by the negligent operation of a vehicle.
• Hit-and-run: Leaving the scene of an accident, especially one involving injury or significant property damage.
• Driving without a valid license or while suspended/revoked: Operating a vehicle when legally prohibited.
• Fleeing an officer: Failing to stop for law enforcement when signaled.
• Serious speeding violations: Excessive speeding, especially in construction zones or school zones, or at speeds that endanger others.

You will need an experienced traffic violation attorney such as ours at Lee Law Firm, LLC, for help with understanding and protecting your rights, identifying defenses, negotiating with prosecutors, minimizing stiff penalties and reducing your stress level.

The Officer Has Pulled You Over. Now What?

While you must cooperate with identifying yourself and following safety commands, you are not required to provide incriminating testimony or consent to searches. In Wisconsin, the most critical decision point occurs during OWI investigations, where roadside tests are voluntary, but post-arrest chemical tests carry heavy administrative penalties for refusal.

When you have been pulled over for a potential traffic violation, you have legal obligations and constitutional rights. Understanding the distinction between what is voluntary and what is mandatory is key to protecting your interests.

What You Must Do

If you are pulled over for a potential traffic violation, keep in mind that you have legal obligations and constitutional rights. Understanding the distinction between what is voluntary and what is mandatory is key to protecting your interests.

• Pull over safely: You must signal and stop your vehicle in a safe location as soon as it is practical after receiving a visual or audible signal from an officer.
• Identify yourself: You are legally required to provide your name and, upon request, show your driver’s license, vehicle registration and proof of insurance.
• Stay in your vehicle: Unless directed otherwise, stay in your car with your hands visible on the steering wheel. Stepping out without being asked can be interpreted as a threat.
• Comply with “lawful orders”: This includes instructions to step out of the car or move to a specific location for safety.

Under Wisconsin law, failing to comply with specific lawful orders from a police officer at a traffic stop can result in additional charges like “Obstruction” or “Fleeing an Officer.”

The Consequences Are Steep For Traffic Violations In Wisconsin

The consequences for traffic crimes in the state can vary widely but often include:

• Fines: Ranging from minor amounts for infractions to thousands of dollars for serious offenses.
• Demerit points: Accumulation of points on your driving record, which can lead to license suspension.
• License suspension or revocation: You could lose your driving privileges for a certain amount of time or permanently.
• Jail or prison time: Especially for OWI, reckless endangerment, or hit-and-run offenses that result in injury or death.
• Mandatory ignition interlock devices (IIDs): For OWI convictions.
• Increased insurance premiums: Your auto insurance rates will be more expensive.
• Vehicle impoundment: In some serious cases, the state locks up your car.

Minor traffic tickets might be handled by paying a fine, but more serious traffic crimes or repeat offenses, particularly those that are misdemeanors or felonies, can have long-lasting negative effects.

Contact Us Now To Take Control With A Proven Defense

What might seem like a simple ticket can quickly escalate into a serious criminal offense, threatening your driving privileges, your financial stability and your freedom to drive. The stakes are too high to face serious traffic violations without the help of an experienced lawyer. If you or someone you know is facing traffic crime allegations, contact Lee Law Firm, LLC, in Milwaukee today at 414-567-5631 or send us an email for a free consultation. Our attorneys will fight to protect your rights and your future on the road.