Driving in Wrong Direction Lawyer in Cumberland County, NJ — What Are Your Options?
Driving in the wrong direction in Cumberland County is a serious traffic offense that can lead to reckless driving charges under NJSA 39:4-97.2, carrying fines, points, and potential jail time. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides defense for these charges in the Cumberland Vicinage Superior Court. Our firm, founded in 1997, has over 120 years of combined legal experience.
What Is the Law on Driving in the Wrong Direction in New Jersey?
In New Jersey, driving a vehicle in the wrong direction on a roadway is specifically prohibited by statute. The offense is often charged under the state’s reckless driving law, N.J.S.A. 39:4-96, which defines reckless driving as operating a vehicle “heedlessly, in willful or wanton disregard of the rights or safety of others.” Driving against traffic flow inherently creates a high risk of a head-on collision, meeting this standard. A conviction is a traffic violation, not a crime, but carries severe penalties including fines, motor vehicle points, and potential license suspension.
Last verified: April 2026 | Superior Court of NJ, Cumberland Vicinage | New Jersey Legislature
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of New Jersey’s reckless driving statute, see N.J.S.A. 39:4-96 (official New Jersey Legislature site). For information on court procedures in Cumberland County, visit the Cumberland Vicinage website.
Local Court Process for a Wrong-Way Driving Charge in Cumberland County
Wrong-way driving cases in Cumberland County are heard in the Superior Court, Law Division, Traffic Section, located in Bridgeton. The process typically begins with a summons. An initial appearance is scheduled where you will enter a plea. If you plead not guilty, the case will be set for a trial before a judge. Given the danger involved, prosecutors in the Cumberland Vicinage often seek the maximum penalties for wrong-way driving offenses, making a strong defense critical.
- Receive your traffic summons and note your court date.
- Consult with a driving in wrong direction lawyer Cumberland County before your first appearance.
- Attend your initial arraignment to formally hear the charges.
- Your attorney will review evidence and police reports for defenses.
- Negotiate with the prosecutor or prepare for a bench trial.
- Attend your trial or sentencing hearing if a plea is reached.
Potential Penalties for Wrong-Way Driving in NJ
In Cumberland County, a wrong-way driving conviction under reckless driving statutes can result in fines, 5 motor vehicle points, insurance surcharges, and possible jail time.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Reckless Driving (N.J.S.A. 39:4-96) | Traffic Violation | Up to 60 days | $50-$200 | 5 points, possible suspension | Insurance increases, court costs |
| Careless Driving (N.J.S.A. 39:4-97) | Traffic Violation | None | $50-$200 | 2 points | Insurance increases, court costs |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Cumberland County Traffic Case
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. Our firm brings a combined 120+ years of legal experience to every case. We understand that a wrong-way driving charge is more than just a ticket—it’s a threat to your driving privileges and financial stability. We approach each case with a focus on the specific details and local court practices in Bridgeton.
Our Approach to Wrong-Way Driving Defense
We examine every aspect of your stop and citation. Was the signage clearly visible? Were there road construction or detour issues that contributed? Was the officer’s observation accurate? By challenging the evidence and negotiating with local prosecutors, we work to have charges reduced or dismissed. For an affordable driving in wrong direction lawyer Cumberland County, our firm provides transparent fee structures and focused representation.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Contact Our New Jersey Location for Cumberland County Cases
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) 651-3900
By appointment only.
Our New Jersey location serves clients at courts throughout Cumberland County, including in Bridgeton, Vineland, and Millville. We are accessible via Route 55 and Route 49. If you need a driving in wrong direction lawyer near me Cumberland County, we offer 24/7 phone consultations at (888) 437-7747. Meetings are held by appointment only at our Tinton Falls location. We serve communities across the county including Bridgeton, Vineland, Millville, Upper Deerfield, Commercial Township, and Greenwich.
Frequently Asked Questions: Wrong-Way Driving in NJ
Is wrong-way driving a criminal offense in New Jersey?
No. Wrong-way driving is typically charged as a serious traffic violation, such as reckless or careless driving. It is not a criminal offense like a misdemeanor or felony, but it carries heavy penalties including points, fines, and possible jail time.
How many points will I get for a wrong-way driving ticket?
It depends on the specific charge. If cited for reckless driving (N.J.S.A. 39:4-96), you will receive 5 motor vehicle points. A careless driving (N.J.S.A. 39:4-97) conviction results in 2 points. These points stay on your driving record and can trigger insurance surcharges.
Can I go to jail for driving the wrong way?
Yes. A conviction for reckless driving, which often covers wrong-way driving, carries a potential jail sentence of up to 60 days. While not common for first-time offenses, the judge has discretion to impose jail time, especially if the action caused an accident or injury.
Should I just pay the ticket for driving in the wrong direction?
No. Paying the ticket is an admission of guilt and will result in a conviction on your driving record. This means you will automatically receive the points, fines, and insurance consequences. It is always advisable to consult with a driving in wrong direction lawyer Cumberland County to explore your defense options first.
What are common defenses to a wrong-way driving charge?
Common defenses include unclear or missing road signage, temporary road hazards or construction that forced a detour, a medical emergency, or mistaken observation by the police officer. An attorney can review the evidence to identify the strongest argument for your case.
Related Legal Information
Facing a wrong-way driving charge is stressful. For more information on New Jersey traffic defense, visit our New Jersey traffic lawyer hub page. If you are also dealing with related charges in a neighboring area, our attorneys also serve clients in Atlantic County and Camden County. For other legal needs in Cumberland County, we also handle DUI cases and business law matters.
Page last verified and updated: April 2026. Laws and procedures change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for the most current guidance regarding your specific situation.