June 20, 2011

Broward Judge to Police: No More Red-Light Tickets in Fort Lauderdale

A Broward County judge recently ruled that police aren't allowed to issue citations for running a red light because they carry a steeper penalty than citations issued by getting caught by a camera, the South Florida Sun Sentinel reports.

This is welcome news for those who have been the victim of the unbalanced and unfair practices in Fort Lauderdale regarding red-light camera tickets. Fort Lauderdale Traffic Defense Lawyers have done a substantial amount of work fighting for the rights of drivers accused of violations through "Big Borther" methods such as traffic cameras. Fighting Broward County traffic tickets is important because not only can they cost a driver in fines and fees, but also can tack on points to a person's driver's license, which could lead to a suspension.
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As we reported earlier this year on our Florida Criminal Lawyer Blog, we have succeeded in getting many of these camera tickets dismissed.

The Broward County judge ruled that because red-light camera tickets cost $158, while officer-issued tickets cost $260 and impose points on a person's driver's license, the practice violates the equal protection provisions of the United States Constitution and Florida Constitution. This ruling will likely set precedent for judges dealing with other citations throughout Broward County.

The Attorney General's Office will appeal the ruling. But while the state argues equal protection doesn't apply in this situation, it's possible either red light camera tickets or tickets written by officers will go by the wayside if the Florida Supreme Court eventually gets involved. It's equally possible that the penalties for red-light violators caught on camera will increase to those that accompany a ticket issued by an officer.

In Florida, red light violations are governed by specific details regarding whether a light is "run" or not. Sometimes, this can be defended simply by the officer mistakenly believing the light was red or not correctly judging where in the intersection the vehicle was when the light turned red.

Governments in recent years have turned to red-light cameras as a wave of the future approach to fighting traffic violations. In many cities throughout Florida, the cameras simply show traffic in real-time, while others record road intersections. Some are designed to cite traffic violators. As the government becomes more intrusive, it is more and more important to make sure you are well represented.

Don't just pay a fine if you get a ticket. Consult with an experienced law firm that can help you decide whether the ticket is worth fighting. Adding points to your driver's license can hike up your insurance rates as well as lead to a license suspension. Plus, the tickets are very costly. Speak first with Fort Lauderdale Traffic Defense Lawyers before doing anything.

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April 15, 2011

Car Chases in Fort Lauderdale often Complex Cases Requiring Aggressive Defense Attorney

A wild car chase sent six people to the hospital, the Sun-Sentinel reported.

Car chase charges should always be handled by an experienced defense attorney in Fort Lauderdale. These are complex cases. Passengers in a car involved in a chase can be victims -- but are typically treated by authorities as if they had their foot on the gas. This can be particularly problematic when a serious or fatal accident is involved. In cases where law enforcement treats you as a perpetrator of the crime, you can be held responsible for the serious or fatal injuries that result.
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And that can mean years or even decades behind bars.

In this case, the three men were arrested in Fort Lauderdale and ordered held without bail. The chase began about 6 p.m. Monday in Pompano Beach when Broward sheriff's deputies tried to stop a black Nissan SUV. Authorities claim the driver accelerated toward two deputies who were in the street making an unrelated arrest.

This will also be an issue of contention for the defense. Authorities will likely charge the driver with assault with a deadly weapon or aggravated against a law enforcement officer. Intent will need to be established and there is a good chance an experienced defense lawyer will be able to get the charge reduced or dismissed. But it illustrates a common theme in charges that stem from a chase: Law enforcement typically file just about every charge they can dream up. What you are charged with is irrelevant. It's what you are convicted of that matters.

Police say the men ultimately jumped out of the SUV and jumped into a Dodge Caliber hatchback. That car ultimately crashed into a Hyundai -- injuring three adults and three children inside.

The Examiner reports police did indeed charge the driver with aggravated assault on a law enforcement officer. Other charges include resisting arrest, aggravated fleeing in a motor vehicle, failure to remain at the scene of an accident involving injury and burglary with battery.

Two of the men were also charged with probation violations.

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February 9, 2011

Defense Wins Case Involving Juno Beach Speed Van

A Palm Beach judge has ruled against the use of a high-tech speed van to write speeding tickets in Juno Beach, according to a report in the Palm Beach Post.

As our Palm Beach traffic ticket defense attorneys wrote last week on our Florida Criminal Lawyer Blog, nearly 10 percent of the state's traffic tickets are issued in Palm Beach County.
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The court ruled utilizing the traffic vans to catch speeders goes beyond state law and is therefore illegal. The case was brought by a motorist who paid a $150 fine after being mailed a citation after his vehicle was photographed speeding in Juno Beach.

The ruling could impact hundreds of other motorists who were cited by the van. A class-action lawsuit has been filed. The vans, like red-light cameras, only photograph the vehicle and ticket the owner. No proof is offered that the owner was driving.

As we reported last month on our Florida Criminal Lawyer Blog, an argument used by Leifert & Leifert Defense Attorney Robyn Rappaport Weiss led to the dismissal of dozens of red-light camera tickets in Palm Beach.

The controversial van had been parked on Juno Beach's swales for about a year. It issued $1 million worth of tickets to motorists from 40 states.

The town also has two red-light cameras that became operational Dec. 1. Tickets for red-light violators are $158.

The Juno Beach town attorney and town manager did not return calls seeking comment or refused to comment when The Post inquired about the issue.

Here you can view reader-nominated speed traps in Palm Beach County.

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February 5, 2011

Traffic Tickets Abound in Broward and West Palm Beach

Palm Beach traffic tickets account for about 10 percent of the traffic citations handed out statewide, the Palm Beach Post reported.

It's an incredible number that has ticket-happy law enforcement agencies pouring millions in citation revenue into local government coffers. It also means you stand an excellent change of having your citation reduced or dismissed with the help of a Palm Beach traffic ticket defense lawyer capable of holding the overburdened system accountable.
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The Post reports Palm Beach County hands out the most speeding tickets per resident of Florida's 10 most-populous counties. Meanwhile Haverhill, which is less than a square mile in total size, has become a notorious speed trap where ticket revenue has skyrocketed 188 percent. The town's ticket count has doubled in the past year. In 2010, 1,620 Haverhill speeding tickets were issued.

In Palm Beach County, enough tickets were issued to cite 1 in 11 residents last year. In Broward, it's nearly 1 in 16. In Miami-Dade and Orange counties, it's about 1 in 20. With less than 7 percent of the state's population, Palm Beach County issued 10 percent of the state's 1.1 million speeding tickets.

When asked to name local speed traps, drivers cited 60 locations. Spots in West Palm Beach, Lake Worth, Royal Palm Beach, Haverhill and Lake Worth Road at Florida's Turnpike topped the list.

Drawing particular ire was Haverhill's 30 mph limit on Belevedere Road, a main artery where the limit is as high as 50 mph. Meanwhile, the number of tickets there has increased even as drivers have slowed down. The average speed was 12.7 mph over the limit last year, compared to 14.4 mph in 2006.

Since the beginning of the economic downturn, the number of tickets issued has decreased statewide and in most large municipalities. Not in Haverhill, where the numbers continue to increase. And not in 10 other smaller Palm Beach municipalities, which also reported increases.

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January 23, 2011

Palm Beach Defense Attorney at Leifert & Leifert Prompts Dismissal of Numerous Red-Light Camera Tickets

The Sun-Sentinel reported recently that many motorists are successfully getting traffic tickets in Fort Lauderdale dismissed by using a legal argument of Palm Beach Defense Attorney Robyn Rappaport Weiss, an associate at Leifert & Leifert.

Rappaport argued West Palm Beach officials should have to produce a certificate to prove the cameras were installed in accordance with state law. The judge accepted the argument, much to the satisfaction of about 20 defendants waiting in the courtroom, all of whom became instant winners.
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Motorists continue to beat the tickets in large numbers. The program was established last year as a way to improve intersection safety while pouring some much-needed revenue into city coffers in West Palm Beach and Palm Springs. The Sun-Sentinel reports the score, for those who have challenged the tickets since October, stands at 198 rulings in favor of the motorist, and 56 in favor of the government.

We encourage motorists to fight most traffic citations. Red-light violations are a serious moving violation, which will result in a $264 fine and can substantially increase your car-insurance rates. Additionally, a serious moving violation on your record can substantially increase the potential penalty for future violations and can even result in the loss or suspension of your driving privileges.

The red-light camera program is off to a rough start. Numerous instances in court reveal citations are often erroneously issued to motorists. Some have proven they were out of town or even out of the country at the time the citation was issued. Others have been issued tickets while running a light as part of a funeral procession. Still others have used the videotape to prove their innocence as the tape used to issue the citation clearly show they did not run the red light.

Meanwhile, American Traffic Solutions, the company providing the cameras, is busy blaming the judge for upholding the rights of motorists. "Out of all of the judges in Florida that have heard these cases, it's unfortunate that this judge refuses to adhere to the clear guidelines established in the legislation," a spokesman was quoted as telling the Sun-Sentinel.

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December 20, 2010

Boca Raton Traffic Lawyers Discuss Red-Light Cameras

Last week, the city council in Boca Raton voted 3-2 to approve a contract with American Traffic Solutions to install and operate red-light traffic-endorsement cameras. This vote could make Boca Raton the first city in southern Palm Beach County to install the cameras.

The city expects to make over a half million dollars per year from the cameras. But according to an assistant police chief, drivers caught running a red light during the first 30 days when the cameras are in operation will be issued a warning. Following the warning period, drivers will be subject to a $158. However, the red-light violation won’t count as points on the driver’s license.

While other South Florida counties including West Palm Beach, Palm Springs, and Royal Palm Beach already have red-light cameras installed, some are discontinuing them in response to legal challenges and a Florida law that makes red-light cameras less profitable. The law was enacted on July 1 and reduces the number of fines by allowing “careful and prudent” rolling right turns in areas that use red-light cameras.

Source: Boca Raton to install red-light cameras at five intersections, Palm Beach Post, December 17, 2010

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December 1, 2010

Broward Traffic Lawyers Discuss Decrease in Teens Applying for Driver’s Licenses

Florida_teens.jpgOver the past three years, the number of 16-year-olds applying for Florida drivers’ licenses has reportedly from 58% to 55%. That’s consistent with a nationwide trend in which teens are delaying applying for driver’s licenses.

This could mean fewer accidents and fatalities since teen drivers have the highest fatal crash rate of any age group, according to a 2008 report from the U.S. Department of Transportation.

Experts say concerns about safety be driving this trend. The rise of texting and Facebook have also been cited as factors, because teens can stay connected more easily without hanging out in person. Some teens cite fear of being in an accident.

But perhaps the most domination consideration is the economy. Insurance premiums for teen drivers can be expensive, and some cash-strapped parents may not be eager to pay for additional gas and other expenses associated with driving.

Source: Fewer 16-year-olds applying for driver's license, South Florida Suntinel, November 30, 2010

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November 22, 2010

Drivers Say Deerfield Toll Plaza Confusing, Turnpike Officials Looking Into It

tollbooth.jpgOur Coconut Creek traffic lawyers have learned that the signage in an area of the Sawgrass Expressway is creating confusion among drivers. One Florida motorist from Lake Worth even got a $165 traffic ticket after following instructions to “keep right,” then crossing the white line to head north on the turnpike because her lane was not on the right. She was cited for driving through a safety zone.

The woman fought the ticket in court, arguing that the tollbooth canopy blocked her view of overhead signs instructing drivers which lane they should be in. A judge will determine if the ticket still stands.

No statistics were available how many other drivers had been cited for improper lane changes in the area, turnpike authorities say they are aware of a problem and are examining ways to improve electronic signs above the plaza to make lane information more clear.

Source: Sawgrass drivers find Deerfield toll plaza confusing, The South Florida Sun Sentinel, November 13, 2010

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November 19, 2010

Broward Commission to Consider Old Coca-Cola Site for Courthouse Parking Lot

Our South Florida traffic attorneys have learned that the site of the old Coca-Cola bottling plant on South Andrews Avenue may be turned into a 1,000-space parking garage for the new courthouse. A Broward County committee unanimously recommended the site, which will then go before the Broward County Commission for approval.

A Fort Lauderdale-based project developer competed against two other bids and won the committee’s recommendation. It has vowed to stay within the county’s $29.5 million budget and create a covered walkway leading to the courthouse. The developer also estimates that the garage could be completed in 18 months after permits are approved.

The parking garage contract bidding war had pitted several of Fort Lauder’s bigwigs against each other.

Source: Old Coca-Cola site on South Andrews Avenue gets committee's nod for courthouse parking garage, South Florida Sun Sentinel, November 4, 2010

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November 17, 2010

South Florida Traffic Lawyers Discuss Speed Traps

Speed traps abound here in South Florida, and the Palm Beach Post is asking readers to write in with the location of speed traps around the region. The Post’s Watchdog team is planning to examine the topic for a future story about Palm Beach County speed traps and how much the county makes from these areas.

They’ll also be pondering the question on many Florida drivers’ minds: do speed traps protect public safety or are they a sneaky way of generating revenue?

So far, almost a hundred readers have written in with warnings about local speed traps. According to the Post, some residents even spend time waving handmade signs warning other drivers about spots where Florida traffic cops typically hang out, waiting to issue speeding tickets.


Source: Open your trap - and tell us about speed traps, Palm Beach Post, November 15, 2010

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November 15, 2010

Palm Beach County Traffic Employee Charged with 23 Counts of Official Misconduct

According to an arrest report from the Florida Department of Law Enforcement, Florida authorities arrested a former courthouse employee on 23 counts of official misconduct and booked her into Palm Beach County jail earlier this week. The 27-year-old is accused of altering traffic records and dismissing cases while working as a deputy clerk for the Palm Beach County Clerk & Comptroller’s Office in Delray Beach.

She was fired and allegedly used her position to dismiss traffic tickets and clear driver’s license suspensions for her friends, relatives, and boyfriend. Authorities estimate that she may have altered as many as 42 records, resulting in over $5,000 in lost traffic fines for Palm Beach County. Those records have been corrected.

If convicted of official misconduct, her maximum sentence is five years of jail time for each count.

Source: Former Palm Beach County court employee arrested, South Florida Sun Sentinel, November 8, 2010

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September 10, 2010

Broward County Traffic Lawyers Remind Drivers of New Red Light Cameras

Starting next Wednesday, Fort Lauderdale drivers who run a red light at certain intersections will be subject to fines of $158 for each offense. New red light cameras will be in effect at six locations next week.

These intersections include westbound State Road 84 at Southwest Ninth Avenue; westbound Commercial Boulevard at Northeast 21st Avenue; eastbound Sunrise Boulevard at Northwest 15th Avenue; northbound Federal Highway at State Road 84; northbound Federal Highway at Northeast Eighth Street; and eastbound Commercial Boulevard at Powerline Road.

The city has approved cameras at ten locations, but it awaiting permits from Broward County before installing cameras at the remaining four locations: Northeast 15th Avenue at Sunrise Boulevard; westbound Cypress Creek Road at Powerline Road; southbound Northwest 31st Avenue at Cypress Creek Road and eastbound Cypress Creek Road at Northwest 31st Avenue.

According to Fort Lauderdale officials, motorists who turn right at a red light camera will not receive a traffic ticket as long as they slow to a near stop and appear to be driving cautiously.

Source: Fines for red-light camera violations begin Wednesday in Fort Lauderdale, South Florida Sun Sentinel, September 8, 2010

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August 30, 2010

Broward Police Patrolling School Zones for Speeders

FL_school_bus.jpgToday is the first day of school in Broward County. For Florida drivers, that means exercising extra caution or potentially paying the price. Those cited for speeding in a school zone can pay $140 for going 1 mph to 9 mph over the speed limit to $590 for going 30 mph or more over the speed limit.

Police officers will be monitoring school zones and cracking down on speeders or those who fail to stop at crosswalks or behind school buses that are stopped to load or unload. They may also be more heavily enforcing seat belt and child safety restraint rules.

A spokesperson fro the AAA Auto Club South recommends paying extra attention in school zones, playgrounds, and other areas with a high concentration of kids. Parents should also remind their children to look both ways and make eye contact with drivers before crossing the street.

Source: Slow down in Broward County school zones, South Florida Sun Sentinel, August 23, 2010

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August 27, 2010

South Florida Police Chief Being Investigated for Alleged Perjury, False Affidavit

Our Broward County traffic attorneys have learned that Wilton Manors Police Chief Richard E. Perez is accused of submitting a false affidavit to dismiss a traffic ticket to a former city commissioner. He was already being investigated for alleged perjury.

The allegations of a false affidavit stem from an incident on April 20. National Railroad Safety Awareness Week was April 18-24, so officers were encouraged to pay even more attention to railroad-related violations. During that time, an officer issued several tickets to Florida drivers, including a former city commissioner. Ten of those were for were violations related to stopping on the railroad tracks and other crossing-related violations.

Perez allegedly tried to have the city commissioner’s traffic ticket dismissed. None of the other traffic tickets were dismissed, and not surprisingly, those drivers are not happy with the situation. Perez will still be an active commission member while he is being investigated.

Source: POLICE CHIEF ACCUSED OF FIXING EX-COMMISSIONER’S TRAFFIC TICKET, South Florida Times

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August 19, 2010

Miami Traffic Lawyers Discuss Decline in Tickets

A recent article mentions that Florida state revenue from traffic tickets is down. According to the article, the most recent statistics that the state has are from 2008. During that time, officers wrote 120,000 fewer tickets than in 2006.

Some say that the economy may be to blame. The Florida Highway Patrol is seeing fewer drivers on the road, and those who do drive are taking greater precautions to avoid a speeding ticket. Others say that police officers may be more sympathetic to the financial plight of Florida drivers, and may be writing fewer tickets. Another factor may be that budget cuts are forcing police departments to focus on more serious crimes like DUI.

Whatever the reason, Florida’s budget is feeling the pinch, especially in the Criminal Justice Standards and Training Trust Fund.

Source: Florida Traffic Tickets Declining, WJHG.com, July 31, 2010

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August 11, 2010

Florida Highway Patrol Waiting for Miami Dolphins Player to Break His Silence

According to the South Florida Sun Sentinel, it has been over a month since the pickup truck accident involving a vehicle registered to Miami Dolphins wide receiver Brian Hartline. The Florida Highway Patrol (FHP) is still waiting to hear from Hartline regarding the traffic accident. He has been traveling for part the summer but has been interviewed in several media outlets since his return. He reportedly told a journalist that his lawyer had told him not to speak publicly about the traffic issue.

The FHP is investigating who was driving the Dolphins player’s 2008 Ford pickup truck. The incident report says the truck collided with an abandoned 2002 Cadillac Escalade and had to be towed away. The accident occurred just east of Interstate 95. There were apparently no witnesses to the early morning crash.

The owner of the vehicle is expected to report a crash, but failure to do so is an infraction subject to a fine, not a criminal offense. At this point, it’s unclear who was driving the truck.

Source: FHP still waiting to hear from Miami Dolphins WR Brian Hartline, South Florida Sun Sentinel, July 26, 2010

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June 7, 2010

South Florida DUI Attorneys Discuss Weekend Traffic Patrol

According to the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office, 14 drivers were apprehended over the weekend for alleged DUI. The crackdown was part of “Staying Alive in 95 & Florida’s Roadways,” which began Friday night around 5pm and ran through 3pm on Saturday.

The Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office released a statement this morning saying that sheriffs deputies wrote a total of 843 traffic citations. Forty of them were criminal. One driver was even found to be driving under zero tolerance, according to the statement.

Sheriff’s offices in Miami-Dade and Broward counties had similar operations over the weekend as well.

Sources: Sheriff's office weekend traffic patrol nets 14 DUIs, Palm Beach Post, June 7, 2010

Increased law enforcement patrols planned for South Florida roads this weekend, South Florida Sun Sentinel, June 4, 2010

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June 4, 2010

Palm Beach County Lawyers Discuss New Credit Card Processing Fees

Screen%20shot%202010-05-31%20at%204.32.13%20PM.pngOur South Florida lawyers have learned that the Palm Beach County’s Clerk and Comptroller’s Office is instituting a new system for credit card processing of speeding tickets, marriage licenses, and other items. It used to be that residents paid a $5 convenience fee for paying with a credit card online. Paying in person at the clerk’s office involved no such fee, even if the resident uses a debit or credit card.

Under the new system, those paying with a credit card will be assessed a 3.5% processing fee collected by MyFloridaCounty.com. That means that tax-payers will no longer shoulder the burden of covering credit card transaction fees.

Officials in Broward County said they considered the 3.5% processing fee, but decided to stick with their current system of charging a $5 convenience fee for credit card online transactions.

Source: Palm Beach County switches to 3.5 percent credit card processing fee, South Florida Sun Sentinel, May 24, 2010

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May 26, 2010

Death of Florida Trooper Highlights Importance of Move Over Law

Florida_troopers.jpgOur South Florida traffic lawyers read about a state trooper who was killed over the weekend after a driver ran into the back of his patrol car.

Although Florida passed the Move Over Law eight years ago, many Florida drivers still fail to move one lane over from emergency vehicles when the lights are flashing or drop their speed limit at least 20mph below the posted speed limit. Failure to do so could result in a $164 traffic citation.

In addition to Florida, over forty over states have passed similar Move Over Laws. Since 1999, more than 150 law enforcement officials have been killed by vehicles on United States highways.

Source: Trooper's Death Reinforces Need for Move Over Law, NBCMiami.com, May 20, 2010

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May 17, 2010

Fort Lauderdale Lawyers Discuss Traffic Crackdown

Florida_accidents.jpgIn response to two fatal pedestrian accidents, Fort Lauderdale police officers are cracking down on traffic and pedestrian violations along Las Olas Boulevard. One of the deaths has been labeled a traffic homicide case, and authorities are still investigating.

Since the crackdown began on April 1, police have issued more than 400 tickets to motorists and walkers. Motorcycle officers are charging drivers with not yielding to people at crosswalks and street corners, while pedestrians are being charged with jaywalking. The fines ranged from $86 to $165, but can get even pricier if the driver is speeding.

The city of Fort Lauderdale is also considering lowering the speed limit in this area and installing cameras to catch drivers who run red lights. Storeowners concerned about safety have also suggested adding raised crosswalks and caution signs reminding drivers to stop for pedestrians at crosswalks.

Source: Deaths lead police to crack down on traffic on Las Olas, South Florida Sun Sentinel, May 10, 2010

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April 14, 2010

Florida Traffic Lawyers Discuss Specialty Auto Tags

license_plate.jpgLast year, the legislature voted to increase the fee on specialty auto-license plates from $14 to $33, and charities which depend on tag revenues for funding are feeling the pinch as sales go into freefall.

Florida has 114 varieties of tags honoring a variety of causes, including universities, breast cancer research, wildflowers, and endangered animals. Sales of those auto tags have decreased by 64 percent compared to last year, according to officials.

Specialty tags originated in Florida and debuted on January 1, 1987 to raise money for a Challenger Space Shuttle memorial. According to a Florida senate report, sales have generated nearly $436 million in income for charities since the program started. Specialty license plates represent almost 9% of tags on personal vehicles in the state.

Source: Florida specialty auto tag sales plummet, South Florida Sun Sentinel, March 16, 2010

Photo courtesy of tome213

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March 30, 2010

Juno Beach Town Council Removes White Speed Van

Our Palm Beach County traffic lawyers have learned that the town of Juno Beach is working through contract disagreements with LaserCraft, the company that owns and maintains the van carrying red-light cameras in June Beach. Until then, the town has suspended the Safe Street Program, including the vans carrying red-light cameras.

These vans are part of a larger legal dispute over the legality of red-light cameras. Last month, a Miami-Dade circuit court judge ruled that red-light cameras in Aventura are illegal; however that ruling does not apply to Palm Beach County.

So far, Juno Beach has collected $743,000 in fines from the red-light cameras. Mayor Mort Levine says Florida drivers are still expected to pay their fines and abide by traffic laws, even though the vans were suspended. He also expects that LaserCraft and the town will work through their contract dispute and reinstate the cameras.

Source: Juno speed van taken off roads; dispute centers on who pays if town loses in court, Palm Beach Post News, March 19, 2010

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March 22, 2010

Traffic Ticket Lawyer in Broward County Discusses New iPhone App

iphone_app.JPGDrivers in Central Texas now have an easier way to find out about the location of speed traps and radar guns. By using the Trapster app on a 3-G phone or going online, motorists can potentially avoid a speeding ticket. The free iPhone app can also notify drivers about flooded roadways or accidents that might lead to delays; however, the primary focus of the app is radar detection.

It's interesting to us that the sheriff's office is actually encouraging this new technology, rather than shunning it. In fact, when Art Acevedo became Austin's police chief, he eliminated daily news released that announced where the department was using radar. The current attitude is that the more information the public has, the safer the roads will be.

Our Traffic Ticket lawyers in Broward County will be watching to see if this new technology catches on elsewhere in the country, particularly Broward and Palm Beach Counties.

Source: iPhone App may help you avoid speed traps, Kens5.com, March 4, 2010

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March 5, 2010

Palm Beach County Traffic Attorneys Discuss Red-Light Cameras

traffic_light.jpgOn Monday, West Palm Beach reportedly began doling out fines to South Florida drivers using their controversial new red-light cameras. The cameras are located at four intersections (Avenue and Belvedere Road, Parker and Summit Boulevard, Australian Avenue and Banyan Boulevard, and at Australian and Belvedere) and a fifth camera, at Australian and 25th Street, will be added soon. The city and its private camera vendor plan to split the $125 fines.

These fines come after several months of "warnings" during which red-light cameras documented over 17,000 "events" and police approved over 5,000 warnings. That warning period began in November of last year and was extended after drivers argued that they had made safe right turns on red and that the camera flashes were distracting.

One West Palm Beach lawyer says the cameras are unconstitutional because they presume guilt and fine the car's owner rather than the driver who ran the red light. This debate is playing out across the state, and our law firm will be watching with interest for the outcome.

Source: Red-light cameras: Violators in West Palm Beach run risk of fines, Palm Beach Post News, March 1, 2010

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February 26, 2010

South Florida Traffic Attorneys Discuss Out-of-State Tickets

highway_driving_FL.jpgAt our Broward County traffic ticket law firm, clients often ask if it matters when they get a ticket outside of Florida. The short answer is yes. That unpaid traffic ticket from your trip to the Grand Canyon could complicate the process of renewing your Florida driver's license. However, it's a bit more complicated than that.

There are three major databases that track information on your driver's license. There's the National Driver Register (NDR, also called the Problem Driver Pointer System), which monitors drivers who have had their licenses revoked or suspended. It also lists drivers who've been convicted of serious traffic violations like driving while impaired by drugs or alcohol. There's no guarantee that your license application will get denied simply because you're on this list, but it's the not the kind of company you want to keep.

That traffic ticket would actually follow you across state lines through the Driver License Compact (DLC) and the Non-Resident Violator Compact (NRVC). Basically, the DLC makes a traffic violation in another state the equivalent of a violation here in Florida. With a few exceptions, if you fail to pay a traffic ticket from another state, your home state can suspend your license until you resolve the issue.

Source: Do Speeding Tickets Follow You From State To State?, AOL Autos, February 16, 2010

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February 15, 2010

Police Using Sobriety Checkpoints to Catch Unlicensed Drivers

Florida_cars.jpgOur South Florida traffic attorneys read a recent article in the New York Times about unlicensed driver who have had their cars seized by police at sobriety checkpoints. This is fast becoming a trend, particularly in some areas that need the extra revenue from the impounded vehicles. In fact, police are often more likely to seize a car than to catch a drunk driver.

According to a study by the Investigative Reporting Program at the University of California, Berkley, impoundments at checkpoints in California brought in an estimated $40 million in police fines and towing fees statewide. Most cities split the revenue with towing companies. The checkpoints do catch some drunk drivers, but in some cases police are pulling over sober motorists and seizing vehicles from unlicensed drivers, often illegal immigrants. Some of these impounded vehicles are then sold at lien sales if they go unclaimed.

While officials say that demographics are not a factor in determining where police set up checkpoints, records indicate that cities with a large Hispanic population are impounding cars at three times the rate of other cities with a smaller minority presence.

Source: Sobriety Checkpoints Catch Unlicensed Drivers, New York Times, February 13, 2010

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February 12, 2010

Fort Lauderdale Police to Look for Criminals Using Car-Tag Scanners

FL_parking_lot.jpgOur Fort Lauderdale Criminal Lawyers recently read an article about how police in Fort Lauderdale will begin using license plate readers to scan cars. Rather than typing in a suspicious car's license plate number into a computer, the software would conduct searches automatically, looking for stolen vehicles, and suspects on terrorist watch lists, among other things.

Several other communities in South Florida are already using similar technology. The Broward Sheriff's Office, the Palm Beach Sheriff's Office, and police departments in West Palm Beach and North Miami Beach reportedly already have tag readers.

A police spokesperson would not divulge how many patrols will get tag readers, but he said it could be a small number to start. The technology will be paid for with grant funds.

Source: Lauderdale police move toward car-tag scanners, South Florida Sun Sentinel, February 1, 2010

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February 5, 2010

Miami-Dade Trooper Charged With Felony for Writing Fake Tickets

bogus_tickets.jpgThe attorneys at our South Florida traffic ticket law firm recently read about a Florida Highway Patrol trooper who has been arrested for writing fake traffic citations. Prosecutors estimate that hundreds of drivers received these bogus citations during 2009 and the citations were missing driver signatures.

One of the drivers the trooper cited actually lives in Peru, while others claim they were not on the road on the day that there traffic ticket was allegedly issued.

The trooper was arrested on 22 counts of official misconduct, which is a third-degree felony. Hundreds of his traffic citations have been dismissed. Authorities say that he wrote the tickets to boost his output, despite the fact that the FHP does not have a quota for its troopers.

The incident is being investigated by the State Attorney's Office.

Sources: Miami-Dade trooper accused of writing hundreds of fake tickets, South Florida Sun Sentinel, February 3, 2010
Trooper arrested for issuing bogus tickets, WSVN.com, February 3, 2010

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January 20, 2010

Fort Lauderdale Traffic Attorney: Red Light Cameras to be Approved?

Fort Lauderdale, Florida.

The Fort Lauderdale Traffic Attorneys at Leifert & Leifert have learned that the Ft. Lauderdale city commission will be voting tonight on the installation of red light cameras. Should the vote pass, Fort Lauderdale will be installing the red light cameras at the following pre-determined locations:

Eastbound E. Sunrise Boulevard at NE 15th Ave.
Southbound NE 15th Ave. at E. Sunrise Boulevard

Southbound N. Federal Highway at E. Oakland Park Boulevard

Westbound NW 62nd St./W. Cypress Creek Road at NW 9th Ave./Powerline Road

Eastbound NW 62nd St./W. Cypress Creek Road at NW 31st Avenue

Southbound NW 31st Avenue at NW 62nd Street/W. Cypress Creek Rd.

Eastbound W. Sunrise Boulevard at NW 9th Avenue
Westbound W. Sunrise Boulevard at NW 9th Avenue

Eastbound E. Commercial Boulevard at N. Federal Highway/US 1
Westbound E. Commercial Boulevard at N. Federal Highway/US 1

Broward County Traffic Ticket Lawyer Discusses Fort Lauderdale and Red-Light Cameras

"10 stop lights getting red light cameras in Lauderdale; vote is tonight", South Florida Sun-Sentinel, January 20, 2010.

Update: Fort Lauderdale City Commission Approves Red Light Cameras

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November 24, 2009

Fort Lauderdale Traffic Lawyer - Broward County Sheriff's Office Gets More Muscle

Broward County Traffic Defense Attorney Brian S. Leifert has just learned that the Broward County Sheriff's Office will be unleashing their latest weapon in an effort to better enforce local traffic rules. The Sheriff's Office will be utilizing at least one new Dodge Challenger R/T (pictured below) hoping to curb aggressive and reckless driving around Broward County.

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Report: Broward Country Sheriff’s Office Unveils Dodge Challenger R/T Cruiser

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October 14, 2009

Broward Traffic Lawyer Discusses New Strategy for Nabbing Unlicensed Drivers

Parking_Lot.jpgAccording to a 2003 study released by the American Automobile Association, drivers without a valid license are five times more likely to be involved in a fatal crash than drivers who have a legal license. Traditionally, law enforcement agencies don't actively pursue unlicensed drivers.

But in Palm Beach County, teams of state troopers and deputies have been cracking down on unlicensed drivers. In fact, they have been ordered to stake out courthouses and apprehend drivers attempting to pull out of the parking after losing their driver's license. Since the crackdown started in September, over a dozen drivers whose licenses were suspended by a judge have been arrested and their vehicles towed, according to officials.

Of course, not everyone agrees with this approach. A Fort Lauderdale criminal defense lawyer said he feels tax dollars would be better spent policing more serious issues like violent crime. Although officials say they are planning additional operations in Miami-Dade and Broward county, they would not disclose the details.

New tactic from law enforcement agencies nabs unlicensed drivers, South Florida Sun Sentinel, October 7, 2009

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October 13, 2009

Broward Traffic Attorney - Parkland Becomes First City in Broward County to Ban Texting While Driving

Florida_texting.JPGLast week, Parkland's City Commission voted unanimously to approve a ban on text messaging while driving within Parkland city limits. The ban was prompted by a recent Virginia Tech Transportation Institute study that found drivers who text while behind the wheel are 23 times as likely to be involved in a car accident compared to other drivers. Commissioner Jared Moskowitz reportedly proposed the ban.

Florida drivers face a $100 fine for texting while driving, but on-duty police and fire officials are exempt. However, deputies are currently issuing warnings while the city awaits a ruling from the state Attorney General's Office on the legality of a text messaging ban.

Some believe that text messaging while driving as is dangerous as drunk driving or dui, especially for younger, less experienced drivers.

Parkland bans texting while driving, South Florida Sun Sentinel, October 7, 2009

Florida could ban texting while driving, South Florida Sun Sentinel, October 26, 2009.

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October 6, 2009

Delray Beach Traffic Attorney Doug Leifert Comments on Traffic Tickets

Florida_driving.jpgSouth Florida traffic lawyer Doug Leifert was recently quoted in a Sun Sentinel article about the increase in DUI convictions and traffic citations over the last few years.

According to Leifert, "My office is busier and busier every year. Without even looking at the stats, I can tell you the increased enforcement is obvious."

Comparing Leifert's statement to the actual statistics shows that Palm Beach County drivers did in fact get more traffic tickets in 2008 compared to the previous year. In fact, every category of traffic citations increased in 2008, but the most dramatic increase was in more serious cases like DUI and fleeting police.

While Palm Beach County saw up to an 85% increase in DUI convictions last year, in part because of prior statistical reporting issues, Broward County and the state of Florida actually saw traffic citations drop. The Palm Beach County Sheriff's Office doubled its DUI unit and did several new specialized operations focused on speeding and DUIs, which may partly explain the discrepancy.

Palm Beach County records 85 percent increase in 2008 DUI convictions; all traffic citation categories rise, South Florida Sun Sentinel, October 1, 2009

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September 30, 2009

Lawyers Note Fewer Traffic Tickets Issued in Broward County Last Year

Florida_motorway.jpgDelray Beach traffic lawyer Doug Leifert was recently quoted in a South Florida Sun Sentinel article about statistics recently released by the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles. According to statistics, 2008 marked a 5-year low for traffic citations in Broward County. The most dramatic decrease was in "non-criminal moving" violations such as speeding, careless driving, and running red lights.

The trend statewide showed a decrease in overall traffic citations, although Palm Beach County actually saw an increase in traffic tickets in 2008. The most significant increase in Palm Beach County was in DUI convictions, though may have been because of statistical reporting issues in previous years.

According to the Broward Sheriff's Office, it is unclear why there were fewer tickets issued in 2008 than in previous years. A spokesman for Broward's Florida Highway Patrol troop said it may be related to the economy because fewer drivers are on the road.

Broward County traffic tickets down in 2008, South Florida Sun Sentinel, September 29, 2009

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September 2, 2009

Palm Beach County Traffic Tickets Can Now Be Paid at Check Cashing Stores

Florida_ticket.jpgOur South Florida traffic ticket attorneys have learned that the Palm Beach County Clerk & Comptroller's office has partnered with The Check Cashing Store to offer Florida motorists another option for paying traffic tickets. Drivers can pay their tickets at one of more than 80 Check Cashing Store locations in Palm Beach, Broward, and Miami-Dade counties.

Tickets can also be paid online, in person at any clerk's office, or by mail. A $3 convenience fee applies if paying at The Checking Cashing Store, and tickets must be paid in cash within 30 days of receiving the citation.

Tickets that require mandatory court of proof of compliance (for instance, in the case of improper or unsafe equipment or failure to display registration) cannot be paid at The Check Cashing Store.

Paying traffic tickets just got easier in Palm Beach County, South Florida Sun Sentinel, August 7, 2009

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August 21, 2009

Pembroke Pines Concerned Over Red-Light Camera Ticket Lawsuits

Florida_red_light.jpgTwo separate lawsuits involving red-light cameras in Aventura and Temple Terrace, Florida have officials in Pembroke Pines worried that their Broward city could be next. Critics of the red light cameras assert that the cameras violate drivers' due process rights. A few months earlier, Florida's legislature killed a bill that would have allowed municipalities to install red-light cameras at intersections.

In response to these concerns, city officials are working to amend their contact with American Traffic Solutions (ATS) so that ATS would shoulder part of the burden of any lawsuits.

Last March, Pembroke Pines became the first city in Broward County to fine drivers for speeding using red-light cameras. The first camera is at Pines Boulevard and 129th Avenue. They have since added five more, and violators are fined $125.

Twelve other Broward County municipalities are either researching this option or are about to vote on it. Hollywood, Fort Lauderdale, and Hallandale Beach have all approved red-light camera programs, despite it being a legal gray area.

Pembroke Pines fears red light camera lawsuits, South Florida Sun Sentinel, August 16, 2009

Pembroke Pines to discuss red-light cameras tonight, South Florida Sun Sentinel, August 19, 2009

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August 3, 2009

New Florida Law Will Require State's Worst Drivers to Retake Test

Florida_driving_classes.jpgOur South Florida traffic lawyers have recently learned about a new law that will require some of the state's worst drivers to take a behind-the-wheel driver's education course and a pass a driving test. The law, which was signed last month by Governor Charlie Crist, goes into effect on January 1.

Drivers should note that violations will begin counting in January, so if you have previous traffic infractions or were found at fault for a car accident prior to January, it won't count in this case. However, highway safety officials say they have identified more than 3,200 Florida drivers who are considered dangerous behind the wheel. These drivers were involved in more than 10,000 accidents during a three-year period ending December 31, 2008. Roughly 600 of those drivers have at least one conviction for driving under the influence of alcohol.

Statistically, these drivers are predominantly males under age 40 who live in urban areas. More than one third of those drivers are under age 25. The state's most populated county, Miami-Dade, has the largest number of dangerous drivers. Broward County ranks fifth.

Florida's worst drivers will have to retake driving test, Miami Herald, July 10, 2009

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July 31, 2009

Palm Beach Traffic Lawyer Warns: FHP Upping Enforcement of Traffic Laws

Our South Florida traffic attorneys have learned that the Florida Highway Patrol will bulk up its patrols on July 30 and 31 in an effort to reduce driving hazards on the Florida Turnpike and interstate highways. Troopers will be cracking down on drivers who tailgate, speed, run traffic lights, change lanes without warning, violate the Move Over Law, or drive under the influence of alcohol or illegal drugs.

Troopers will use RADAR, VASCAR, LASER, video cameras, and unmarked patrol vehicles as part of this special enforcement campaign called Be Smart, Drive Smart Florida! In addition, the Florida Highway Patrol will use its aircraft to watch for potentially unsafe drivers. Enforcement will be focused on Florida's Turnpike, every interstate, and other major state roads in Florida.

Although there are no additional fines or points for aggressive driving, when a trooper stops someone for aggressive driving, the driver receives a traffic citation for the offenses committed and the troopers checks an "aggressive driving" box on the citation. Judges may impose higher fines or require the defendant to enroll in an aggressive driving course if they see the box checked on the citation.

Press Release: Florida Highway Patrol Cracks Down on Aggressive Driving, July 29, 2009

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July 24, 2009

Former Florida Highway Patrol Troopers Says He Was Fired Not Writing Enough Tickets

Our South Florida traffic attorneys recently read about a Florida Highway Patrol (FHP) trooper with a 12 year history of service who says he was terminated for not writing enough traffic tickets. According to Bay News 9, former trooper Chris Maul left for six months and was put on a routine probation period when he returned.

In May, Maul made 44 arrests, including four for DUI. Despite getting a positive review during his quarterly evaluation, Maul was later told that d his level of activity wasn't going cut it. He was terminated in June.

Florida statutes prohibit the FHP from setting up a quota system for citations. Bay News 9's calls to the Florida Highway Patrol were not returned.

Former FHP trooper: I was fired for not writing enough tickets, Tampa Bay News, July 15, 2009

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July 2, 2009

New Florida Traffic Laws Mean Higher Fees for Drivers in Broward and Palm Beach

Florida_seatbelt_laws.jpg
Our South Florida traffic lawyers have been following several new laws that took effect in Florida earlier this week. As part of these new laws, Florida drivers will pay more for their yearly vehicle registrations, license renewals, vehicle plates, and several other areas associated with driving.

An initial Florida license will cost $48, up from $27 and a renewal license will jump from $20 to $48. The late payment on a driver's license will increase from $1 to $15.

Collection of the fees begins September 1, and these new charges are part of the Florida Legislature's efforts to balance their budget, which had a deficit. Florida has nearly 19 million registered cars, and the experts predict that the new motorist fees could generate around $800 million in 2010 and even more in the years to come.

Another change to Florida traffic law is the introduction of the Dori Slosberg and Katie Marchetti Safety Belt Law, which allows police offers in Boward, Palm Beach and throughout Florida to stop drivers simply for not wearing a seat belt. In the past, drivers could only be pulled over for other offenses and then cited for failing to wear a seatbelt.

Police saturate Palm Beach County roads with eye towards seatbelts, Palm Beach Post, July 1, 2009

Cigarettes, traffic fines, driver licenses to cost more starting today as new state laws take effect, Palm Beach Post, July 1, 2009

Drivers fees taking big bumps, South Florida Sun Sentinel, June 30, 2009

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June 26, 2009

Boca Raton Traffic Attorney Discusses Red-Light Cameras

Boca_Raton_traffic_lawyers.JPGEarlier this week, Boca Raton's City Council approved plans to add red-light cameras at 10 intersections in Boca Raton, plus install parking meters at the beach and Mizner Park. Many cities in Florida and around the country already have paid parking and red-light cameras to catch and fine those who run traffic lights.

Adding red-light cameras to several Boca Raton intersections is expected to generate an additional $1 million for the city at a time when council members are struggling to close an estimated $4 million budget gap for the 2009-2010 fiscal year.

The council was divided on the issue, because some worried that fining drivers who run red lights would make the city appear less welcoming to visitors. Some also voiced concerns that the city might face lawsuits from Florida drivers involved in rear-end collisions.

Boca Raton approves red-light cameras, South Florida Sun Sentinel, June 23, 2009

More cash or more crashes? Boca Raton considers red-light cameras, parking fees to close $4 million budget gap, Palm Beach Post, June 23, 2009

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May 20, 2009

Broward Traffic Lawyer Discusses Signal Upgrade Project

broward_traffic_lawyerAccording to the South Florida Sun Sentinel, Broward County is more than four years behind schedule on making traffic signal upgrades. Broward county was to upgrade traffic signals at over a thousand intersections by the end of last year. The new high-tech systems would ensure that the traffic signals could adjust to driving conditions and traffic situations as they occur.

Original plans called for the work occur in six phases starting with Fort Lauderdale in 2004 and concluding with southwest Broward last year. The new traffic lights would use closed-circuit cameras and fiber optic cables to adjust signal times for bad weather, congestion during rush hour, traffic jams or accidents.

The system is not operational anywhere in Broward county. Although new signal controllers have been installed at the majority of the intersections, they lack the software to activate them, and the project is now more than four years behind schedule. The commissioner is furious that this $85.6 million project is so far behind schedule and said top county administrators must be held accountable for the delay.

Broward's traffic signal update years behind schedule, South Florida Sun Sentinel, May 15, 2009

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April 7, 2009

Broward County Traffic Ticket Lawyer Discusses Fort Lauderdale and Red-Light Cameras

fort lauderdale ticket attorneyBroward County Traffic Ticket Attorney, Brian S. Leifert has learned that Fort Lauderdale city commissioners are meeting today to discuss the possibility of posting video cameras at major intersections to catch drivers who run a red light. The previous City Commission supported the proposal, but the commission now has four new faces and the new commission must green light the proposal before it can go to a formal vote. The vote could take place as early as June, and the cameras could be installed later this year.

When a driver runs a red light, the camera captures the license plate on film, and the owner receives a violation notice in the mail. The notice can carry a fine, but it’s not a traffic citation and does not impact the driver’s record. Commissioner and former police chief Bruce Roberts said that Fort Lauderdale may be able to get a vendor to pay for the cameras in return for a portion of the fines collected.

Several other cities in South Florida, including Hollywood, Pembroke Pines, Coral Gables, and Delray Beach, already have similar cameras.

Fort Lauderdale considers posting cameras to catch red-light runners, Sun Sentinel, April 7, 2009

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March 27, 2009

South Florida Criminal Defense Lawyers - Florida Police Using New License Plate Scanners

Police in South Florida are using license plate scanners to look for stolen vehicles and criminals. The multi-camera and scanner system is mounted on the hood, trunk, or roof of a cruiser and can scan as many as 10,000 license plates a shift.

In Palm Beach County, the Sheriff’s Office has been using a scanning system to track sex offenders and gang members since 2007. The Broward Sheriff’s Office has 35 license plate recognition systems mounted on police cars and stationed at locations throughout the area. Their system has been in place for about a year and scans 300,000 license plates per month on average.

Police say the system is an effective way for law enforcement officials to multi-tack and track criminal activity, but some privacy-rights groups worry that the information could be misused. Every license plate is stored in a police database and the hope is that the information could be shared between all agencies in the future. A representation of the ACLU’s Broward chapter expressed concern about officers tracking a girlfriend or snooping on people who haven’t committed a crime.

According to a spokesman for the Broward Sheriff’s Office, “it's a crime-fighting tool used to find violent offenders or violent criminals. This is not Big Brother watching."

New cameras in police cruisers can analyze thousands of license tags a day, The Sun Sentinel, March 26, 2009

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March 16, 2009

Fort Lauderdale Criminal Lawyer Warns of Enhanced Broward County Traffic Enforcement

Fort Lauderdale Criminal Lawyer Brian S. Leifert has just been made aware of enhanced traffic enforcement in western Broward County. Operation “B.A.D.” (Blitz on Aggressive Drivers) is back and will be conducted over the next four days by the Broward County Sheriff’s Office and Florida Highway Patrol.

The operation is said to be partly a result of an accident involving Broward County Sheriff’s Deputy Tony Morales who was hospitalized when his cruiser was struck this past Thursday after he had stopped a driver on I-95 to issue a traffic ticket.

A similar traffic ticket enforcement campaign was conducted about two weeks ago in western Broward County where Broward County law enforcement officers issued a total of 189 traffic tickets.

Officers will be looking out for all violations with a specific emphasis on aggressive drivers and violators of the "Move Over" law as well as seat belt violations.

Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday enforcement will be from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m and Thursday’s will be 2 p.m. to 10 p.m.

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February 20, 2009

Broward County Traffic Ticket Attorney Warns of Enhanced Traffic Enforcement

"Operation Bad" (Blitz on Aggressive Drivers) is on the prowl today in Western Broward County. Enforcement will be concentrated on I-75 and the Sawgrass Expressway.

Local law enforcement officers will be looking for violations of the "Move Over" law as well as speeding and any aggressive driving behavior.

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February 18, 2009

Palm Beach County Criminal Defense Lawyer: Recession and Law Enforcement

Everybody is feeling the economic slowdown, especially government in Palm Beach County. With declining property values and declining consumption, the Government is faced with declining revenues which are based on these values. Instead of tightening budgets, eliminating positions and consolidating operations, government's answer in Palm Beach County is to increase fines and also the amount of traffic tickets being issued. As a Palm Beach County criminal defense lawyer, I've seen this first hand.

palm beach county traffic stop

We are all being targeted with special enforcement with the goal being to fill the government coffers with money generated from traffic violations. Fines and Court costs have increased dramatically over the last year as have the amount of Palm Beach County traffic tickets being issued.

Driving defensively and with strict observations of all traffic laws will help you avoid being selected by police for some special enforcement and revenue generation. Drivers need to be vigilant to increased law enforcement activity and expect to see increased patrols and prolific traffic ticket writing for the foreseeable future.

Does anybody know of any Palm Beach County police officers losing their jobs? Something to think about......

January 20, 2009

Broward County Traffic Ticket Lawyer: Advice on Florida's "Move Over" Law

Florida's Move Over Law requires motorists to move over when a patrol car, emergency vehicle, or tow truck/wrecker is stopped on the side of the road with lights flashing. Driver's in Florida are required to approach emergency vehicles with caution, change lanes away from emergency vehicles if able to move over safely, or slow down while maintaining a safe speed.

Florida move over law

In light of recent crashes involving law enforcement conducting traffic enforcement, the State of Florida enacted legislation in an effort to reduce the risk for law enforcement and emergency personnel.

Broward County and Palm Beach County law enforcement are writing a significant number of traffic tickets for alleged violations of the Florida Move Over Law. Traffic stops have spiked in South Florida because of this law. As a criminal defense lawyer in Florida for over fourteen years, I have seen the routine traffic stop turn into more serious situations like DUI investigations, arrests for illegal drugs and weapons violations. In addition a personality conflicts between a driver and an officer can escalate into a more serious situation when an officer decides there is a need for retaliation for a "bad attitude."

Be aware of this law. Police officers are constantly looking for reasons to pull you over. You can limit your risk of being stopped by being aware of this law.

Personally, I feel attempted compliance by a driver actually increases the risk of an accident. If traffic is heavy or conditions are unsafe, I recommend at least activating a turn signal so at least your intentions can be clearly seen by law enforcement.

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January 16, 2009

Broward County Traffic Ticket Lawyer: Florida Traffic Ticket Penalties Set to Increase

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Florida Traffic Ticket fines are scheduled to increase on February 1, 2009. In an effort to generate revenue for the State of Florida, Legislators have increased numerous Florida traffic ticket penalties and expect to raise $16 million in 2009.

Fines on speeding tickets are scheduled to increase $10.00 - $35.00 depending on the alleged speed. Fine on other traffic tickets for moving violations are also scheduled to increase. Florida traffic citations for failure to yield, failure to maintain a single lane, not using a turn signal or running a red light will also increase.

The State of Florida has also eliminated the eighteen percent (18%) discount for individuals who are eligible and elect to attend traffic school.

Broward County law enforcement issued a total of 530,052 traffic tickets in 2006.

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