If you’re like most Americans, driving is a way of life. It’s how you get around. The ability to drive anywhere you want, at any time, gives you freedom and convenience.
Losing your license – even for a few months – is a massive setback. Getting around on the Greenlink requires extra time, effort and planning. Relying on friends or family to drive you can be tiresome, and Uber or Lyft aren’t budget-friendly for daily use. Understandably, it may be tempting to get behind the wheel and hope you don’t get caught.
Here’s why you shouldn’t.
It’s a criminal offense
Unlike traffic violations, driving under suspension in South Carolina is a criminal offense. For a first offense, you may be looking at a hefty fine and up to 30 days in jail, not to mention a criminal record. A conviction can hamper your employment prospects and cause embarrassment down the road.
If you lost your license because you were deemed a habitual traffic offender, you are looking at a potential felony conviction. You could also permanently lose your driving privileges in South Carolina and face up to five years in jail.
You might have alternatives
Even if your license has been suspended, it may be possible to pursue a restricted license. Several types are available depending on the reason for the suspension. With a restricted license, you may still be able to drive to and from school or work – on certain routes or during certain hours. It’s an avenue worth exploring.
It’s worth fighting the charges
If you’re already facing charges for driving under suspension, don’t assume you have no options. You may still have strong grounds for challenging the charges or obtaining a better outcome.
