People do not often think about traffic violations as crimes. Most of the time traffic citations are merely violations that result in a small fine or other minimal penalty. However, traffic violations can lead to misdemeanor charges in certain situations. When people are charged with a misdemeanor they can face much more serious penalties. In Oregon, misdemeanors can result in fines of up to $6,250 and up to a year in jail. These penalties can have a serious effect on a person's immediate and long-term futures.
In a recent case, a man was arrested and charged with misdemeanors in Washington County. In this case, police from the Washington County Sheriff's Office and the Oregon State Police were stopped on the side of a road helping car accident victims. In addition to the officers, a patrol car and a fire truck were also on the side of the road.
While helping the at the accident scene, police claim that a driver sped by the accident in a Mercedes C320. According to officers, the 24-year-old man driving the car narrowly missed the officers and the emergency vehicles as he passed the accident scene. In fact, the officers claimed that they had to jump out of the way in order to avoid being hit.
Shortly after, the driver of the Mercedes was pulled over by officers and arrested. He has since been charged with failure to install an interlock ignition device, reckless driving, endangering another person and misdemeanor driving while suspended. He was taken to Washington County Jail following his arrest.
While people may not think that misdemeanor charges, such as these, are a big deal, they can be problematic. Therefore, people should always treat them seriously and make sure they are prepared to defend themselves. In many situations defense options can reduce penalties or charges.
Source: Portland Tribune, "Speeding Mercedes barely misses police officers," Deeda Schroeder, July 28, 2013
