Can Traffic Violations Be Expunged From Your Record?

4 minute read

The Zebra website reports that the US issues approximately 41 million speeding tickets annually. On average, the police conduct over 20 million stops each year.

To some, traffic violations seem a minor issue. But it has a long-lasting impact on your record. They can actually affect your insurance rates and job opportunities. Even your driving privileges. One example is penalties for  North Carolina traffic violations. They can keep you up to 30 days in jail and fine you up to $1,000, plus additional points on your record.

Do you wonder if these marks can be cleared, or “expunged,” from your record? Let’s look at how expungement works in traffic violations that are holding you back from moving forward.

Understanding Expungement Laws for Traffic Violations

In consideration of a traffic violation record, it is critical to know expungement laws. These laws offer a rehabilitative opportunity by removing certain offenses from your record. 

Once you understand expungement, you can get your license back and, in a general sense, lift your reputation. Local laws must be checked, as violations in one state may not apply in another. 

Through a little research, you may find out which subpoenas are eligible for expungement and which aren’t. Collecting the required documentation and following the proper steps is quite critical. 

Taking the initiative will improve your future prospects and help you connect with the community. Never underestimate the value of a clean record in your lifetime. 

Types of Traffic Violations Eligible for Expungement

Depending on your state, a few traffic violations may be expunged. Minor offenses such as speeding and running a stop sign can generally be expunged unless they require a certain condition, such as completion of traffic school or having maintained a clean driving record ever since the violation. 

Some places also let you get rid of non-criminal crimes like failing to yield or changing lanes improperly. Expungements cannot be used for cases involving probation, which are more dangerous than cases involving DUI or reckless driving.

You must verify these facts for your state, as they vary by case and area. You can start to clear your driving record, get back to living your life, and feel safer behind the wheel once you’re sure that the traffic ticket charge can be erased.

Traffic ticket lawyer R. Patrick McPherson also advises consulting a knowledgeable attorney, as they can help you fight your traffic ticket, including at trial, if necessary, and potentially help you clear off your record.

The Process of Expunging a Traffic Violation

Once you identify the specified violations for expungement, you must review the procedure. You need to collect documents required for the application, such as court records or proof of payment of any fines. 

Now, the next step should be filling out the expungement application, which is state-specific; completeness and accuracy must be observed. Engaging a legal service provider is advised, as unforeseen matters may occur. 

After submission, there is a waiting period while the court reviews the case. There will be a hearing where reasons for the expungement can be presented. If approved, the violation will be expunged to allow the person to have a clean slate and gain peace of mind. 

Criteria for Expungement Approval

Understanding the criteria of approval for expungement is an important aspect for whoever wants to clear a driving record. To begin with, there are usually some eligibility requirements to satisfy, which might include something like clean driving for a set number of years following the violation. 

Most jurisdictions will refuse expungement for serious offenses such as DUIs or reckless driving. You must also be certain that you have paid all fines and completed all court-ordered programs. Again, having a clean record is crucial in this case. 

Remember that rules vary in different states. Always check with your local government to avoid any mistakes. 

Benefits of Expunging Traffic Violations From Your Record

Expunging traffic violations from your record can open many doors into the personal and professional avenues of your life. Clearing your record thus appreciably improves your chances of obtaining a job or loan or even finding a place to rent. Employers conduct checks from time to time, and a clean driving record can give you an edge. 

In the absence of any geographical or social impediments from the way of past violations, you can now build relationships within the community with ease. Relieving yourself with the knowledge that you will not go into all the setbacks holding you down anymore is quite comforting. 

At the end of the day, those violations should be wiped from your record, and you step forward, open your heart to new beginnings, and dive fully into the life compatible with you.