The term “motor vehicle’ means more than just cars – motorcycles count as well!
The term ‘motor vehicle crimes’, much like ‘sex crimes’ and ‘drug crimes’ covers a wide range of subjects. That can result in a lot of confusion for lots of people here in Michigan, especially when the crimes themselves are so varied. So just like our break down on ‘computer crime’ last week, we’ve decided to unpack the subject of Michigan’s motor vehicle crimes for our readers. We hope this helps, and answers some of your questions.
Motor vehicle crimes in Michigan fall into two categories:
The term ‘motor vehicle crime‘ refers to any violation of the law that involves the use of a car, or other type of motorized vehicle. However, it’s important to know that there are two kinds of traffic violations here in Michigan – and the difference between the two is very important!
Civil Infractions:
Civil infractions are violations of local or state traffic laws that aren’t considered ‘criminal’. This would include things like speeding tickets, or not wearing a seat belt. The maximum penalties include paying fines, and having points added to your driver’s license, but no potential jail or prison time.
Motor vehicle crimes:
Motor vehicle crimes are punishable by potential jail or prison time, which is why they’re considered to be ‘crimes’ under local or state law. Technically, you don’t have to be sentenced to jail for what you did to be classified as a crime. The fact that you could potentially be imprisoned as a result, is enough to make something count as criminal. The determining factor is the way the law is written. If the offense is described as either a felony or as a misdemeanor, then it a crime.
So what are some actual motor vehicle crimes in Michigan?
Drunk Driving:
Drunk driving, commonly called DUI (driving under the influence) or OWI (operating under the influence) refers to operating a vehicle while drunk or high. Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol is known to impair driving and often leads to serious motor vehicle accidents.
In Michigan, no one is allowed to drive a vehicle under the influence of ANY amount of illicit drugs (including marijuana, cocaine, heroin or ecstasy). You are also not allowed to drive a car with a blood alcohol content (BAC) of .08 or higher. Doing either of these will likely get you arrested and charged with very serious crimes!
Fighting drunk driving charges is no joke! That’s why it’s best to seek out a highly experienced drunk driving attorney if you’re facing any type of drunk driving crime. Being convicted of drunk driving can have a profoundly negative impact on your life in ways many people can’t even imagine! Jail time, fines, and the loss of your driver’s license are only the tip of the iceberg. Bottom line is that you should hire the best drunk driving attorney you can afford. The attorneys at The Kronzek Firm have decades of experience as Michigan’s top drunk driving attorneys.
Motor vehicle crimes are taken very seriously in Michigan!
Getting pulled over is always a scary experience, even if all you have to show for the experience is a speeding ticket. However, getting arrested is even scarier! Being charged with a crime is terrible, and whether this is your first time or your fifth time, you’re going to need help from a highly-skilled motor vehicle crimes defense attorney.
So call The Kronzek Firm today at 866 766 5245 and discuss your situation with one of the best criminal defense attorneys. We have spent decades helping the people in the lower peninsula of Michigan with all of their criminal defense needs, from drunk driving and drug-related charges, to assault and weapons-related crimes. We are here for you! You can reach us 7 days a week.