Reasons for a Driver’s License Suspension

Having an Indiana driver’s license signifies that you have been bestowed with the privilege of driving in the state (not the right to drive), and this is an important privilege that improves your life in myriad ways. The State of Indiana can allow you this privilege, but it can also suspend it for any number of reasons. If you are facing a driver’s license suspension, it’s time to consult with an experienced Fort Wayne traffic violation attorney. 

Your License Suspension

In Indiana, license suspension ranges from a minimum of 90 days to a maximum of two years, and the duration is dependent upon the underlying reason for the suspension. Once you’ve been sent a notice of suspension, you’ll have 18 days before the suspension goes into effect. Unlike many other states, license suspensions in Indiana are not based on points that accumulate on your license. 

Suspensions are, instead, based on specific events. For example, if you have two moving violations in the space of a year, you will be required to attend a state Driver Safety Program (DSP), and failure to attend can lead to license suspension. 

Common Reasons for License Suspension in Indiana

While there are many causes for license suspension in the State of Indiana, some of the most common include:

• Failing the vision portion of your driver’s test
• Driving under the influence of alcohol and other driving crimes
• Failing to complete a traffic school requirement
• Failing to appear for a traffic summons
• Failure to pay ticket-related fines
• Driving without the required car insurance 
• Being labeled a habitual traffic violator by the court

This list could go on and on. 

Hardship License

Courts will sometimes allow a hardship license that permits someone with a suspended license to drive for specific purposes – generally to drive to and from work. It is within the discretion of the judge handling your case whether or not to grant you a hardship license, and the reason for your driver’s license suspension in the first place can play a pivotal role in this decision. 

If, for example, your license was suspended due to an OWI, but you have successfully completed a certified rehabilitation program and can demonstrate that your license suspension prevents you from supporting your family (by earning a paycheck at work), you may have a compelling case for a hardship license.  

A Fort Wayne Traffic Violation Attorney Can Help

You do not have to take a driver’s license suspension lying down – you can fight the underlying charge if it’s based on a ticket, and doing so is very likely in your best interest. If this is the situation you find yourself in, Robert Bellinger at The Bellinger Law Office in Fort Wayne, Indiana, is an accomplished traffic violation attorney who has a wealth of impressive experience defending the rights of clients like you – in pursuit of optimal case outcomes. We’re here to help, so please do not hesitate to reach out and contact us for more information today.