Fleeing or Eluding

Traffic Attorney in the Morgantown Area

When you are driving and see a law enforcement officer signal you to stop, the law mandates that you pull over immediately. These signals can vary, ranging from flashing lights and blaring sirens to hand gestures or specific verbal commands. Ignoring these directives can result in serious criminal charges for fleeing or eluding police. However, we understand that many drivers face these accusations without any true intention of evading authority. In these complex situations, it is essential to secure the services of a legal professional who can effectively challenge the allegations. The repercussions of a conviction here go far beyond a simple traffic ticket or a temporary suspension of your license.

Often, what looks like a deliberate attempt to flee is actually a reaction to panic. Imagine the sudden shock of seeing flashing lights in your rearview mirror and hearing the loud wail of a siren. Your adrenaline spikes, and the instinctual “fight or flight” response kicks in. In that split second, without thinking about the legal consequences, a driver might make a rash decision to keep driving. This psychological response is common, yet the legal system punishes it severely.

Why Should I Fight These Charges?

You might be asking, is it worth the effort to fight these charges? The answer is a resounding yes. If you are accused of attempting to flee or elude law enforcement in Pennsylvania, defending yourself is imperative. Traffic laws can often be vague or open to interpretation, which frequently leads to wrongful charges. By actively contesting the case, you protect your rights and improve your chances of avoiding harsh penalties. Under current laws, a basic offense of fleeing or eluding is categorized as a second-degree misdemeanor. This carries a mandatory $500 fine and a suspension of your driver’s license.

However, the situation becomes much more dire if the evasion is deemed willful. This can result in a full twelve-month license suspension. Furthermore, specific aggravating circumstances can elevate the charge to a third-degree felony. If you are facing this heightened level of prosecution, consulting a Morgantown criminal lawyer is the best step you can take to mitigate the damage.

The factors that can elevate this charge to a felony include:

• Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol while attempting to flee or elude.
• Endangering the physical safety of police officers or the general public during the pursuit.
• Crossing state lines in an effort to escape jurisdiction.

It is vital to realize that a conviction for this offense leaves a permanent stain on your criminal record. This can severely hinder your ability to secure future employment, housing, or loans. Therefore, fighting the allegations should be your top priority to safeguard your freedom and your future.

Understanding the Risks and Your Rights

The penalties for eluding police are severe and can include jail time, substantial fines, and long-term license suspension. If you find yourself being arrested, the most important thing to do is remain calm. Do not attempt to talk your way out of the arrest, as anything you say can be used against you. During police interrogation, you are well within your rights to politely refuse to answer questions. Instead, explicitly request the presence of a Morgantown DUI attorney or defense counsel before speaking further.

Defenses for Fleeing or Eluding

Attorneys in Berks County can utilize various defense strategies to help clients charged with fleeing or eluding. One effective argument is proving that the driver failed to stop out of a genuine fear for their personal safety—for instance, if the road was dark and unlit. Another common defense focuses on the police vehicle itself. If the pursuing car was unmarked, or if the officer was not in uniform or failed to display a badge, the driver may not have realized they were being stopped by legitimate law enforcement. To present these defenses effectively in court, you need the expertise of a skilled Traffic Ticket Attorney like Sean Logue. A dedicated Morgantown criminal lawyer will review every detail of the pursuit to find inconsistencies in the prosecution’s claims.

How Can We Assist You?

As a top-rated attorney with a 10.0 AVVO rating, Sean Logue has successfully guided numerous clients through the terrifying experience of facing charges for fleeing or eluding. We utilize our extensive experience to meticulously scrutinize the evidence brought against you. This involves a comprehensive review of the time and location of the alleged offense, your specific conduct during the pursuit, and whether the officers adhered to proper legal procedures and attire regulations.

Our proven track record demonstrates our ability to defend clients effectively against serious traffic violations. Whether it is a simple misunderstanding or a complex case involving substance use, a Morgantown DUI attorney from our group can provide the robust legal support you need. Charges of fleeing or eluding must be contested vehemently to avoid life-altering consequences. Sean Logue has always been a steadfast advocate for his clients, providing unwavering representation during their most difficult times.

Mountaineer Law Group

If you need immediate assistance fighting charges of fleeing or eluding, do not wait. Contact our Morgantown criminal lawyer right now at (304) 381-3656. You can also reach out to us online to schedule a consultation. We proudly serve Morgantown, Berks County, and the surrounding regions of Pennsylvania.

Do not hesitate—delaying your legal defense can result in an unnecessarily harsh sentence. Call us today and let a lawyer fight for your rights. If alcohol was involved in your incident, ensure you ask to speak with a Morgantown DUI attorney on our team.