Lockport, IL Traffic Violation Attorney

Respected Attorney for Defense Against Traffic Offenses in Lockport

A reckless driving charge comes with heavy baggage, directly threatening your finances, your freedom, and your reputation in the community. Without skilled legal representation, you could be facing months in jail and thousands of dollars in penalties. A traffic defense lawyer in Lockport, IL can advocate on your behalf and protect your best interests, all while informing you of your best options and helping you resolve your case successfully.

At Issa Law, LLC, Attorney Khaled Issa will take up the fight to defend you against serious charges. He places an emphasis on knowledgeable and compassionate representation, and he will not relent until he has secured the best outcome possible in your case. He sees every case through from beginning to end, ensuring that you get the attention you deserve when your freedom is at stake.

What Is Reckless Driving?

In the state of Illinois, the term "reckless driving" may include any number of acts behind the wheel that could be considered dangerous to people or property. The law is worded to cover a lot of ground, but it outlines one specific offense: deliberately causing your car to go airborne on a hill, ramp, or other incline. Other common reckless driving offenses include driving under the influence, texting while driving, excessive speeding, and ignoring traffic lights and stop signs. Reckless driving is normally charged as a Class A misdemeanor, a crime that may be punished by a fine no greater than $2,500 and the possibility of jail time no longer than 12 months.

Aggravated reckless driving is a more serious charge, increasing from a misdemeanor to a felony. These aggravating circumstances include:

• Causing "great bodily harm," permanent disability, or disfigurement to another person. This is a Class 4 felony, which carries a $25,000 fine and one to three years of jail time.
• Causing any harm to a child or a school crossing guard doing his or her job. This is also a Class 4 felony.
• Causing great bodily harm to a child or a school crossing guard. This is a Class 3 felony, which carries a $25,000 fine and two to five years of jail time.

How to Handle a Traffic Stop for Reckless Driving

If you are pulled over for driving recklessly, you can expect to be ticketed or arrested at the officer's discretion. Knowing how to conduct yourself at a traffic stop will strengthen your defense when your case goes to trial. It is important to follow these guidelines:

• Remain polite and comply with the officer's instructions. Be ready to show your license and registration if prompted.
• Never give any incriminating answers to leading questions such as "Do you know why I pulled you over?" or "Do you know how fast you were going?" In response to these questions, you should decline to answer or insist on speaking to an attorney.
• If you are arrested, exercise your right to remain silent. The officer's role at this point is to build a case for the prosecutor, so anything you say in police custody can be used against you. You can refuse to answer any questions without having an attorney present.
• If you are pulled over for driving under the influence, do not consent to any roadside sobriety tests or portable breathalyzer tests. These tests are not mandatory, and their only purpose is to find a reason to arrest you for DUI.

A traffic stop can be incredibly stressful, especially if you feel pressured by the officer to answer questions or perform certain actions. Your best defense is to avoid antagonizing the officer while making sure you do not do or say anything to incriminate yourself. Getting in touch with an attorney as soon as possible can ensure that you will be able to build a strong defense.

Speak With a Lockport, Illinois Traffic Defense Lawyer Today

When you are up against misdemeanor or felony charges for reckless driving or other traffic offenses, a skilled traffic defense lawyer can protect your rights. Attorney Kal Issa has won numerous accolades for defending his clients, including being named one of the Top 10 Under 40 by the National Academy of Criminal Defense Attorneys. To schedule a consultation, contact us at 708-966-2408.