Experiencing a problematic situation such as being unable to find your wallet or ID can quickly put anyone in a frenzy. A bank card and driver’s license are a part of a person’s daily life, so if their belongings are lost, misplaced, or they were a victim of theft, it can be stressful to wait for a replacement. Sometimes, people unknowingly drive around without a license and discover they don’t have their wallet or ID with them during a traffic stop.
In Louisiana, driving without a license can lead to severe penalties. Although, forgetting to bring your license along for a drive is different than unlicensed driving or using an invalid license. Depending on the circumstances of your traffic stop, you may owe monetary fines or serve jail time for driving without a license. At John D. & Eric G. Johnson Law Firm , our trusted Louisiana criminal defense attorneys are highly experienced in strategizing an irrefutable defense and helping individuals protect their rights in any case.
Driving without a license may be caused by different situations. Varying cases can lead to consequences for being unprepared during a traffic stop or generally disobeying the law. Here are a few examples of driving without a license in Louisiana:
In many cases, driving without a license means the driver is legally allowed to drive but does not have their license with them during a traffic stop. However, an officer may give you a ticket, and you may be obligated to show up in court to prove you are a licensed driver.
This may lead you to pay a hefty fine and fees associated with renewing your driving privileges. If your insurance were affected due to your driver’s license status or coverage termination, you would be required to renew and obtain auto insurance in addition to restoring your driving rights.
In cases such as drunk driving, habitual offenders, or DMV errors, a driver’s license may be suspended or revoked. While the DMV is responsible for communicating with drivers, many people fail to receive notifications of a status change. A lawyer can review your case and may help determine a solid defense.
Every driver must obtain a valid license for the type of vehicle they are permitted to operate. Motorcycles, chauffeurs, non-commercial, and commercial drivers are required to obtain proper licensure from the state. In a case where you do not have a proper license for operating a vehicle and are stopped by law enforcement, you may be subject to penalties.
Different situations have led to the financial penalties and jail time that individuals have been penalized with after driving without a license. Your best bet is to contact a traffic violations lawyer that can review your case and advise you well about your future.