Traffic Offense Defense

A traffic citation in Georgia may seem like a minor inconvenience, but the consequences can be far more serious than most people realize. Points on your license, increased insurance premiums, license suspension, and even jail time are all possible outcomes of traffic offenses — and for commercial drivers, a single serious violation can end your career. Whether you are facing a speeding ticket, reckless driving charge, or a more serious offense like DUI or driving on a suspended license, the decisions you make now will affect your driving record, your finances, and potentially your freedom.

At Bixon Law, Atlanta traffic offense defense lawyer Michael Bixon has 15 years of experience defending drivers against traffic violations in Georgia courts. He understands the Georgia Point System, the Super Speeder law, and the collateral consequences of traffic convictions. Michael knows that even a “minor” traffic ticket can have major consequences, and he fights to protect your driving record, your livelihood, and your future.

Michael Bixon is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to provide immediate guidance if you have been cited for a traffic offense or arrested for a serious traffic violation. Do not simply pay the ticket and plead guilty — contact Bixon Law to explore your options and to protect your driving record.

Defenses to Traffic Charges

Michael Bixon evaluates every traffic case to identify potential defenses and to determine whether the charges can be dismissed, reduced, or negotiated to avoid points on your license. Common defenses include:

1. Challenging the Traffic Stop

Police must have reasonable suspicion or probable cause to stop your vehicle. If the stop was not justified, any evidence obtained during the stop (including citations or DUI evidence) may be suppressed, and the charges may be dismissed.

2. Challenging the Officer’s Observations

In many traffic cases, the officer’s observations are the only evidence. Michael Bixon challenges the officer’s credibility, training, and the accuracy of their observations. For example:

Did the officer have a clear view of the alleged violation?
Was the officer’s radar or LIDAR device properly calibrated?
Did the officer follow proper procedures?

3. Proving Necessity or Emergency

In some cases, traffic violations occur because of an emergency or necessity (such as rushing to the hospital or avoiding a collision). Michael Bixon presents evidence of the circumstances to justify the violation.

4. Negotiating a Plea to a Non-Point Offense

In many cases, Michael Bixon can negotiate with the prosecutor to reduce the charge to a non-moving violation or a lesser offense that carries fewer or no points. For example, a speeding ticket might be reduced to “defective equipment,” which carries no points.

Common Traffic Offenses in Georgia

Georgia traffic offenses range from minor infractions to serious misdemeanors and felonies. Here are some of the most common traffic charges Michael Bixon defends:

Speeding▼

Speeding is the most common traffic offense in Georgia. Under O.C.G.A. § 40-6-181, it is unlawful to drive at a speed greater than is reasonable and prudent under the conditions. Georgia law also sets specific speed limits for different types of roads.

Points for speeding violations:

Exceeding the speed limit by 15-18 mph: 2 points
Exceeding the speed limit by 19-23 mph: 3 points
Exceeding the speed limit by 24-33 mph: 4 points
Exceeding the speed limit by 34 mph or more: 6 points

Super Speeder Law (O.C.G.A. § 40-6-189):

If you are convicted of driving 85 mph or more on any road or 75 mph or more on a two-lane road, you are designated a Super Speeder and must pay an additional $200 state fine on top of the court fine. Failure to pay the Super Speeder fine results in automatic license suspension.

Reckless Driving (O.C.G.A. § 40-6-390)▼

Reckless driving is defined as driving “in reckless disregard for the safety of persons or property.” This is a serious charge that carries criminal penalties, not just a traffic fine.

Penalties:

First offense: Up to 12 months in jail, fines up to $1,000, and 4 points on your license
Second offense: Mandatory minimum 10 days in jail

Examples of reckless driving:

Excessive speeding (often 25+ mph over the limit)
Aggressive driving (tailgating, weaving through traffic, road rage)
Street racing
Fleeing from police

Reckless driving is a misdemeanor that appears on your criminal record, not just your driving record. It can affect employment, insurance rates, and professional licensing.

Driving Under the Influence (DUI)▼

DUI is one of the most serious traffic offenses in Georgia. A DUI conviction carries mandatory minimum penalties, including jail time, license suspension, fines, and completion of DUI school and community service.

Penalties for a first DUI conviction:

Mandatory minimum 24 hours in jail (up to 12 months)
Fines between $300 and $1,000 (plus court costs and surcharges)
12-month license suspension (with possibility of limited driving permit after 120 days)
40 hours of community service
DUI Risk Reduction Program (DUI school)
Clinical evaluation and possible substance abuse treatment

For more information about DUI defense.

Driving on a Suspended License (O.C.G.A. § 40-5-121)▼

Driving on a suspended or revoked license is a misdemeanor in Georgia. Many people do not realize their license has been suspended (often due to failure to pay a Super Speeder fine or failure to appear in court) and are shocked when they are arrested for driving on a suspended license.

Penalties:

First offense: Misdemeanor, punishable by up to 12 months in jail and fines up to $1,000
Second offense within 5 years: Mandatory minimum 72 hours in jail (up to 12 months)
Third or subsequent offense within 5 years: Mandatory minimum 10 days in jail (up to 12 months)

Why your license may be suspended:

Accumulation of 15 or more points on your driving record
Failure to pay a Super Speeder fine
Failure to appear in court for a traffic citation
DUI conviction
Failure to maintain required insurance

Hit and Run / Leaving the Scene of an Accident▼

Georgia law requires drivers to stop at the scene of an accident, exchange information, and render aid if needed. Leaving the scene of an accident is a serious criminal offense.

Penalties:

Accident involving only property damage: Misdemeanor, punishable by up to 12 months in jail
Accident involving injury or death: Felony, punishable by 1 to 5 years in prison (or more if death resulted)

Following Too Closely (Tailgating)▼

Following too closely is a common traffic offense, especially in aggressive driving situations. It is a misdemeanor punishable by fines and 3 points on your license.

Improper Lane Change / Failure to Maintain Lane▼

These violations often serve as pretexts for police stops, particularly in DUI investigations. They carry 3 points on your license.

No Insurance▼

Driving without required liability insurance is illegal in Georgia. Penalties include fines, license suspension, and potential registration suspension.

Georgia’s Point System and License Suspension

Georgia uses a point system to track traffic violations. When you are convicted of a traffic offense, points are added to your driving record. If you accumulate too many points within a certain period, your license will be suspended.

How the Point System Works

15 points in 24 months: License suspended
Points remain on your record for 2 years from the date of conviction

Examples:

If you are convicted of speeding 20 mph over the limit (3 points), reckless driving (4 points), and running a red light (3 points) within a 24-month period, you will have 10 points — close to the 15-point suspension threshold.

License Suspension Periods

First suspension: 1 day for each point over 15 (minimum 1 day, maximum 12 months)
Second suspension within 5 years: – Minimum 120 days, up to 12 months
Third suspension within 5 years: – Minimum 2 years, up to 5 years

Important: Even if your license is not suspended, accumulating points can result in dramatically higher insurance premiums or cancellation of your policy.

Mr. Bixon’s level of knowledge and dedication to his clients is truly beyond top notch. He goes above and beyond to ensure his clients are well-informed, supported, and fiercely represented. If you’re looking for the best lawyer—someone who genuinely cares and consistently delivers results—look no further than Mr. Michael Bixon. He is simply exceptional.

Shun Fleetwood

I cannot thank Michael enough for all he did for my son, as a desperate mother, Michael always gave me the confidence that he would take care of my son’s situation. The first time I had talked to Michael I knew He was send by God , Michael was the only Lawyer that I felt comfortable and reliable, trustworthy, and relieved.
Michael Bixon is very professional and very knowledgeable about his work.
Thank you 🙏🏼
Jacqueline

Calvin Jones

The best lawyer I have ever met! He saved my life! Besides all professionalism, he was a friend in the most difficult time. I have a lot of gratitude and felt supported and safe with his service. He is extremely competent!
Whenever I had questions he answered immediately! Hire him to see the impossible become possible, because that’s what happened to me!
As I already said, the best lawyer! Highly recommended!

Mauricio Reis

At certain points in time, almost everyone will need solid representation. Michael was the exact help I needed. Very easy to get in touch with, communicative, and knowledgeable. Two out of three counts dismissed, and better terms than I ever expected for the 3rd. It is evident that he has a rapport with the his colleagues of the court and judges. Absolutely recommended and If I need legal help in the future he will be my first call. Thank you so much for your help!

Scott Black

Attorney Bixon is the GREATEST Attorney in Atlanta. I want to express my most sincere thanks for the most professional representation. You have stuck by me and my family through stressful moments in dealing with this very stressful case. I admire your composure, work ethic and most of all excellent representation. I most definitely recommend Attorney Bixon to anyone who has illegal issues.

Hubert Owens

My brother was on news , accused fpr theft by conversion felony class d went to jail, out within 1 day and 1 year later case was dismissed . Mike was very helpful. Companies will avoid serviving Georgia state because regulations on state and level of education of detectives is lower then pre school kids . Thank you Mike big time!

Albert Weis

Mr. Bixon was a great choice as an attorney for our family. In a week he got our case entirely dismissed and we couldn’t be happier. He stayed in contact with us everyday giving us updates about how the case was moving alon, keeping us in the loop. It was extremely reassuring to have good communication like that. I couldn’t recommend him more and will definitely be using him for all my future legal needs.

Antonio Rodriguez

Michael Bixon is truly a five star attorney who provides five star care. He worked with me throughout the entire process, going above and beyond, to encourage and get results. His professionalism and commitment to his work is why he comes highly recommended. Mr Bixon is prompt, responsive, and easy to work with. He worked with me with my payments and helped me win two cases! Call him and see for yourself.

M Hudson

Unfortunately Ive been in need of legal counsel more than once or twice. Usually its resulted in a lot of cash for very little peace of mind. Michael was recommended to me when the need arose.Although he was tasked with a laundry list of BIG problems,From the first time I heard him say “I got you, I got you.” I knew things would be okay. And okay is an understatement. I have finally found counsel that works MIRACLES. If I dont learn my lesson, I will surely use him again!!

Christopher Faller

I had an exceptional experience with Michael Bixon. Their team displayed profound legal expertise, dedication, and a client-focused approach. From the initial consultation to the resolution of my case, their professionalism and communication were outstanding. I highly recommend Bixon Law for anyone seeking reliable and top-notch legal representation.

Leo Graf

Consequences of Traffic Convictions

Many people assume that paying a traffic ticket is the easiest option and that the consequences are minimal. In reality, traffic convictions can have serious long-term consequences:

Insurance Rate Increases

Insurance companies review your driving record regularly, and traffic convictions can result in significant rate increases. A single speeding conviction can increase your premiums by 20% to 30% or more. Multiple convictions can result in your policy being canceled entirely.

Loss of Employment

Commercial drivers (CDL holders) face particularly severe consequences from traffic convictions. A single serious violation can result in disqualification from driving commercially, which means loss of employment. Even non-commercial drivers whose jobs require driving (such as delivery drivers, sales representatives, or home health aides) can lose their jobs if their license is suspended.

Criminal Record

Some traffic offenses (such as reckless driving, DUI, and driving on a suspended license) are criminal offenses, not just civil infractions. A criminal conviction appears on background checks and can affect employment, professional licensing, and housing.

Why Choose Bixon Law for Traffic Defense?

15 years of experience defending traffic cases in Georgia courts
In-depth knowledge of the Georgia Point System, Super Speeder law, and CDL regulations
Proven track record of getting tickets dismissed, reduced, or negotiated to avoid points
Personal attention — Michael personally handles every case
24/7 availability for urgent matters
Member of the Georgia Trial Lawyers Association and the Georgia Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers

Free Consultation

Confidential Case Review
Available 24/7
Fast Response Time

CDL Holders and Traffic Violations

Commercial drivers (CDL holders) face stricter standards and more severe consequences for traffic violations. A single serious violation can result in disqualification from driving commercially, which means loss of employment.

Under federal law, the following are considered serious violations:

Speeding 15 mph or more over the limit
Reckless driving
Improper lane change
Following too closely
Driving a CMV without a CDL

Penalties for serious violations:

First serious violation: No disqualification, but a warning from the employer
Second serious violation within 3 years: 60-day disqualification
Third serious violation within 3 years: 120-day disqualification

Major violations result in automatic disqualification, including:

DUI
Refusing a breath or blood test
Leaving the scene of an accident
Using a CMV to commit a felony

Michael Bixon understands the unique challenges facing CDL holders and works to protect their commercial driving privileges.

Contact Bixon Law Today

If you have been cited for a traffic offense in Atlanta, do not simply pay the ticket and plead guilty. Contact Bixon Law to explore your options and to protect your driving record. Michael Bixon is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to provide immediate guidance.

Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. The outcome of any case depends on its specific facts and circumstances. Past results do not guarantee future outcomes. Contact Bixon Law for advice about your individual situation.