What Happens if I am Classified as a HTO? Can I Keep my License?

As a Jacksonville Traffic Ticket Lawyer, I have seen many cases regarding Habitual Traffic Offenders (HTO). Although every case has its specific characteristics and details, the end result is always the same; the individual is facing a 5-year suspension of their Florida license. This will not only have a negative impact on an individual’s job, but also their social life, travel plans, and ability to acquire basic living necessities. This hindrance will only be compounded with Jacksonville’s less than adequate public transportation system. Therefore, as a Habitual Traffic Offender what can I do? You can contact a Jacksonville Traffic Ticket Lawyer to fight for your rights and potentially keep you with a valid Florida Driver’s License. Let me explain HTO.

First, Florida Statute § 322.264 directly addresses this issue. According to the statute, a Habitual Traffic Offender is any person whose record, as maintained by the DMV, shows that such person has accumulated the specific number of convictions for offenses described in (1) or (2) within a 5-year period:

1. 3 or more convictions of any one or more of the following arising out of separate acts: [a]Voluntary/involuntary manslaughter with a vehicle; [b]Any violation of § 316.193 (DUI);[c]Any felony using a vehicle; [d]Driving with suspended or revoked license; [e]Failing to stop or render aid as required by law; [f]Driving a commercial vehicle with privilege revoked; OR
2. 15 convictions for moving traffic offenses for which points may be assessed.

Second, after being labeled a HTO the hassle does not stop there. According to Florida Statute § 322.331, after the statutory period (5 years), the individual can petition the Court for restoration of driving privileges. There will be an administrative hearing to determine restoration and to determine whether to issue a restricted or unrestricted license.

Finally, it is a complicated process of reinstating your license once it has been revoked. Not to mention all the additional fees that you will be responsible for before your license will be reinstated. The best approach is to avoid HTO status altogether. A Jacksonville Traffic Ticket Lawyer can evaluate your driving history and determine the best course of action heading forward to prevent the revocation of your Florida Driver’s License. Therefore, if you have multiple traffic violations or have been labeled a HTO, contact a Jacksonville Traffic Ticket Lawyer today.