Driving in Wrong Direction Lawyer in Bergen County, NJ — What Are Your Options?
Driving in the wrong direction in Bergen County is a serious traffic offense under N.J.S.A. 39:4-85.1, often classified as reckless driving. It can lead to points, fines, and license suspension. If you are facing this charge, a driving in wrong direction lawyer Bergen County from Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. can analyze your case. We offer 24/7 phone consultations.
New Jersey Law on Wrong-Way Driving
New Jersey statute N.J.S.A. 39:4-85.1 specifically prohibits driving a vehicle “in a direction opposite to that in which such traffic is required to move upon such highway.” This is more than a simple traffic ticket; it is often prosecuted as reckless driving under N.J.S.A. 39:4-96, which carries severe penalties. The law is designed to address the extreme danger posed by wrong-way drivers on controlled-access highways and divided roadways.
Last verified: April 2026 | Superior Court of NJ, Bergen Vicinage | New Jersey Legislature
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of the statute, refer to N.J.S.A. 39:4-85.1 (official New Jersey Legislature site). Court procedures and filing information can be found on the Bergen Vicinage court website.
Local Court Process for a Wrong-Way Driving Charge
In Bergen County, wrong-way driving charges are typically heard in the municipal court of the town where the violation occurred. Prosecutors take these cases seriously due to the high risk of accidents. An experienced driving in wrong direction lawyer near me Bergen County can challenge the evidence, such as the officer’s observation or the signage, and negotiate for a reduced charge.
- Receive your traffic summons with a court date for the Bergen County municipality.
- Consult with a defense attorney before your first appearance.
- Your attorney may file pre-trial motions to suppress evidence or dismiss the charge.
- Attend a case management conference where your attorney negotiates with the prosecutor.
- Proceed to a trial before the municipal judge if no acceptable plea agreement is reached.
- If convicted, consider an appeal to the Superior Court, Law Division, in Hackensack.
Potential Penalties for Wrong-Way Driving in NJ
In Bergen County, a wrong-way driving conviction can result in 5 motor vehicle points, fines over $200, and a potential 60-day license suspension if classified as reckless driving.
| Offense | Classification | Points | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Wrong-Way Driving (N.J.S.A. 39:4-85.1) | Traffic Violation | 5 | $200+ | Court Discretion | Insurance Surcharges |
| Reckless Driving (N.J.S.A. 39:4-96) | Traffic Violation | 5 | $50-$200 | Up to 60-day suspension | Possible jail (up to 60 days) |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Experience in Traffic Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our firm brings a focused approach to traffic defense cases in New Jersey. We understand the procedures in Bergen County municipal courts and work to protect your driving privileges.
Discuss Your Case Today
If you have been charged, contact an affordable driving in wrong direction lawyer Bergen County at our firm. We provide clear guidance on the process and potential defenses.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
New Jersey Location — 44 Apple St, 1st Floor
Tinton Falls, NJ 07724
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (732) 651-9900
By appointment only.
Our New Jersey location serves clients at courts throughout Bergen County, including Hackensack, Fort Lee, and Paramus. We offer 24/7 phone consultations — call (888) 437-7747 — with meetings by appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is wrong-way driving a criminal offense in New Jersey?
No, it is typically a traffic violation. However, it can be charged as reckless driving, which is a quasi-criminal offense that carries the possibility of jail time and license suspension.
How many points is a wrong-way driving ticket in NJ?
Five motor vehicle points are assessed for a conviction under N.J.S.A. 39:4-85.1. Accumulating 12 or more points within two years can lead to a license suspension.
Can I fight a wrong-way driving ticket if there was no sign?
Yes. A common defense is the lack of proper signage or confusing road markings. An attorney can argue you did not have proper notice, which may lead to a dismissal or reduction of the charge.
Will my insurance go up after a wrong-way driving conviction?
It is very likely. A 5-point violation is considered major by insurers and will likely result in significant premium increases for three years under New Jersey’s insurance surcharge system.
Should I just pay the ticket to avoid court?
No. Paying the ticket is an admission of guilt. It will result in points on your license, insurance surcharges, and a permanent driving record. It is always advisable to consult with an attorney first.
Related Legal Information
For more information on traffic defense, see our New Jersey Civil Litigation Lawyer hub. If you are facing charges in a neighboring area, our Atlantic County civil litigation lawyer can assist. For other legal needs in Bergen County, consider a Bergen County DUI lawyer.
Page last verified: 2026-04. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.
The same rules apply outside Bergen County, and our page on driving in wrong direction charges across New Jersey walks through each stage.
Your case in Bergen County, New Jersey
DWI and traffic charges are heard first in the municipal court for the town where the stop occurred; appeals go to the Law Division of the county Superior Court. In Bergen County that is the Superior Court of NJ, Bergen Vicinage (2nd Vicinage), 10 Main Street, Hackensack, NJ 07601, telephone (201) 527-2700, open Mon-Fri 8:30AM-4:30PM. Court procedures change; confirm the current schedule on the official vicinage website or with the clerk before you file or appear.
The governing law for this topic is N.J.S.A. 39:4-50 (driving while intoxicated) within N.J.S.A. Title 39, the motor vehicle and traffic code. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. handles Bergen County matters from its New Jersey location at 44 Apple St 1st Floor, Tinton Falls, NJ 07724; meetings are by appointment. Request a New Jersey consultation at (888) 437-7747 or (609) 983-0003.
Related New Jersey pages: Bergen County NJ lawyers directory · Driving in Wrong Direction Lawyer Hudson County, NJ · Driving in Wrong Direction Lawyer Monmouth County, NJ.