Avvo Top Contributor in Criminal Defense 2013

Avvo 10.0 Superb - Top Criminal Defense Attorney

Top 10 Best Attorney Client Satisfaction - American Institute of Criminal Law Attorneys 2024

Avvo Client's Choice in Criminal Defense 2014

Avvo Top Contributor in Criminal Defense 2016

Top 10 Criminal Defense Law Firm 2023 - Attorney and Practice Magazines

Top 10 Criminal Defense Law Firm 2020 - Attorney and Practice Magazines

Martindale-Hubbell - Distinguised Peer rated

Best of Springfield 2023 Winner - Illinois Times

Best of Springfield 2022 Winner - Illinois Times

The Official Community Choice Awards Springfield

The Official Community Choice Awards Springfield 2023

2022 Readers' Choice - The State Journal-Register

10 Best Attorney Client Satisfaction - American Institute of Criminal Law Attorneys

Best of the Best - Top 10 Criminal Defense Attorney 2024

Best of the Best - Top 10 Criminal Defense Attorney 2025

Avvo Excellent Top Attorney Criminal Defense DUI & DWI

Springfield Attorney for Accident-Related Traffic Offenses

Springfield Attorney For Accident-Related Traffic Offenses

Illinois traffic offenses involving a vehicle accident can leave you anxious and unsure. Additionally, the legal consequences may be more serious than you expect, making lawyer guidance essential.

At W. Scott Hanken, Attorney at Law, I offer insight as a former prosecutor and deep familiarity with Illinois traffic laws. I use my knowledge and courtroom experience to defend those facing accident-related traffic offenses in Illinois.

Understanding Traffic Offenses Involving Accidents

Accident-related offenses can arise in many situations, from minor fender benders to serious collisions. They often involve allegations that driver negligence or illegal acts contributed to or caused an accident.

Because these cases often involve injury, property damage or public safety concerns, prosecutors take them seriously. You need an equally serious defense from a skilled attorney.

Examples Of Accident-Related Traffic Offenses

Below are some of the most common accident-related traffic charges I can address:

Leaving the scene (a “hit-and-run”): Fleeing after the accident may lead to charges requiring a hit-and-run defense lawyer’s guidance.
Failure to report: Not notifying law enforcement of the accident can result in unexpected legal trouble.
Reckless driving: Driving with disregard for safety is dealt with harshly, requiring a seasoned reckless driving defense attorney.
Aggressive driving: Tailgating, weaving through traffic or road rage behaviors often introduce or elevate charges.
Vehicular manslaughter: When an accident results in death, you may be charged with vehicular manslaughter – a severe offense.
DUI accidents: If alcohol or drugs are involved, you face severe consequences and need a solid drunk driving accident defense.

You can rely on me to prioritize your case and build the strongest possible defense.

Consequences And Penalties In Illinois

Accident-related traffic offenses can introduce potentially severe ramifications. Possible outcomes include:

Fines and penalties: The monetary consequences can be significant, especially for repeat offenses.
License suspension or revocation: The loss of your driving privileges can affect all parts of your life.
Increased insurance rates: An accident-related conviction can cause your premiums to skyrocket.
Potential jail time: Some offenses (including vehicular manslaughter and DUI accidents) carry a high risk of incarceration, even for first-time offenders.

Unfortunately, a conviction can also impact your employment and education opportunities.

Free Consultations For Springfield Accident-Related Traffic Offenses

If charged with accident-related traffic offenses in Illinois, I can help you improve your situation. Call my office at (217) 544-4057 or fill out my online contact form in Springfield, Illinois, today to discuss your defense options or reach out online. Free initial consultations.

Client Reviews

Driving home from St Louis, halfway home my path crossed a Sangamon officer in a little sting among the interstate. I was ticketed and Officer Friendly (not his real name) provided anxiety-provoking information about an upcoming mandatory court date and all of...

jlynno111

Scott resolved my issues beyond expectations. He is not only highly knowledgeable but also takes the time to explain things clearly and thoroughly. His advice is always fair, courteous, and honest. I truly appreciate his professionalism and dedication. Scott’s...

Laura W.

I am writing to strongly recommend Scott Hanken because of his outstanding legal representation in my traffic case. I was cited following a motor vehicle accident for a violation I believed was unjust. From our first consultation through the bench trial, Mr...

Robert S.

Dear Mr. Hanken, I am writing to formally express my sincere appreciation for your exceptional legal representation and dedication in successfully securing the dismissal of the firearm charge in my case. Your professionalism, legal expertise, and attention...

Donald H.

Mr. Hanken is the definition of a genuine person. My experience was nothing short of amazing. Scott made me comfortable and heard from the moment I walked into his office. He gave me back my reputation and dignity by receiving a not guilty verdict, but most...

Nena M.

Scott Hanken saved my life. Prior to this id not been in a situation where I'd needed a lawyer. Throughout the entire process he made sure I was aware of what was going on with my case, what my options were, and was always prompt. He delivered in everything...

Anonymous

If I could give Scott Hanken 6 stars I would, I called 2 weeks prior to my court date with multiple charges against me, He gave me a great price for his services and got my charges dropped. I would personally recommend him to anyone needing legal services.

Anonymous

Scott Hanken has helped me twice in the last year with a couple of legal issues. I was super impressed with his professional attitude, compassion and kindness. His attention to detail and extensive knowledge made a stressful situation much less so and I would...

Sandy

Mr. Hanken is a fantastic attorney who I highly recommend to anyone needing representation. Excellent advocate who will give you peace of mind from the first phone call. Great communication and got me the perfect outcome, all at an extremely fair price. Thank...

Brian W.

Was my first mess up legally and it was pretty major through just what laws I acted against, didn’t know what to expect and was freaking out until my court date. Scott called and let me know that all I have to pay is a fraction of a fine, and a months...

Josiah L.

One of the most difficult and scary times of my life was handled with seamless care. AWESOME JOB I HIGHLY RECOMMEND THIS LAW FIRM. Scott is a pure professional very knowledgeable and more important The lines of communication were always open, which is very...

Jay T.

Scott is a phenomenal lawyer! He can truly work miracles! He’s a no holds barred kinda guy! Tells you like it is and what he can do for you, then he does it! He was recommended to me and I will recommend him to anyone that needs his services!!!! Scott is...

Rennie B.

Exceptional Follow Up and Support. W.Scott Hanken put me at ease and provided value to my understanding and overall experience. I will not hesitate to use his services if I ever need representation. Thank you so much

Jem

I found myself facing 7 charges and 2 felony charges for reckless driving, fleeing and eluding and sorts. He got ALL of the charges dismissed and I only have to pay a $500 fee and 1 year of court supervision. Nothing on my driving record. He was very...

Alison H.

Working with W. Scott Hanken, Attorney at Law, was outstanding. The firm resolved my case quickly and professionally, kept me informed at every step, and achieved a full dismissal. I recommend them without reservation.

Alex H.

Scott is the best criminal defense lawyer. Never stops trying to get things to the best possible situation for you in a timely manner.

Gannon F.

Scott absolutely amazing the best in Springfield. With an amazing team strongly recommend 10/10.

Sasha A.

They handled everything fast and successfully! answered all my questions I had! stayed in communication the whole time. I would definitely recommend them.

Seth C.

Scott Hanken is a very good lawyer ( best ) . Dependable and always shows up for court . His fees are reasonable . I would hire Mr. Hanken again if i ever would need a lawyer .

Sami S.

I had a small fender bender in Springfield...cops showed up and gave me a failure to reduce speed ticket...i hired Scott to reduce it to a non-moving violation....prosecutor wouldn't budge so Scott had it go to trial...i live in St. Louis...Scott kept me...

Bryan L.

I recently had the pleasure of working with Scott Hanken, who successfully helped me out of a bad situation. I was impressed with Scott's meticulous attention to detail, which made all the difference. I highly recommend Scott to anyone in need of legal...

Holly G.

Scott is a phenomenal attorney. If you find yourself looking for the best criminal defense in Central Illinois, you have without a doubt found your guy. Scott knows the law inside and out and will shoot you straight in every aspect along the way. He is quick...

Austin K.

Coolest Guy and very fluent in defense law. I don’t think anyone can top him honestly. Springfield will miss him if he retires!

Dylan D.

Amazing person, considerate, gets the job done, and is very kind. Not only did Scott provide me with an outcome I wanted, but he was so personally kind to me and helped me feel secure and less stressed. I couldn't be happier with my choice to seek help from an...

Addison S.

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