License plates in the United States are almost unlike those in the rest of the world. Here, they are not only associated with the owner, but are also customizable, something that isn’t the case in other countries. The ability to personalize license plates with reflectors, darkening them, covering them, or spraying them has allowed anyone who wants to commit an illegal act to escape recognition, hence the reason the State of Florida wants to limit this aspect. From now on, anyone who doesn’t comply with the regulations will be legally penalized.
The law reclassifies unauthorized illumination of a vehicle as a third-degree felony
Failure to display a legally visible license plate becomes a serious traffic violation that can carry severe legal consequences. This charge arises when a person places a license plate on a vehicle that was not originally issued to them. All this is due to the fact that road users have found ways to avoid being identified by their license plates by concealing them through various methods. But that’s not all, as the bill, titled “Crimes Involving Motor Vehicles,” also includes other offenses. The law reclassifies unauthorized illumination of a vehicle as a third-degree felony, comparing it to stalking, aggravated assault, and grand theft.
If convicted, a person could face penalties such as fines, probation, and even prison time
The fact is, concealing a license plate is illegal and dangerous, and it hinders the work of law enforcement. Under Florida law, the crime is classified as a second-degree misdemeanor. This means that, if convicted, a person could face penalties such as fines, probation, and even prison time. Drivers who speed, drive recklessly, flee the scene of a crime, or otherwise act contrary to the law cannot be properly prosecuted or identified, which is clearly not right. Such cases have been so prevalent that Florida has taken its ban on concealing license plates seriously.
The state imposes strict regulations to prevent fraudulent activities and maintain proper and regulated vehicle registration
It is important to understand that the specific statute governing this crime is crucial to understanding both the nature of the charge and the possible defenses that can be used in court. Furthermore, the state imposes strict regulations to prevent fraudulent activities and maintain proper and regulated vehicle registration records. In Florida, what was once a non-criminal traffic violation has now become a much more serious offense and will carry harsher penalties for those caught. The purpose of these types of laws is to deter people from engaging in actions that could mislead authorities or evade paying vehicle registration fees.
Those convicted of this offense can face fines of between $500 and $5,000
This also affects those who obey the law, as ignorance of the law doesn’t mean they shouldn’t be obeyed. Unintentionally covering a license plate can also be a problem, whether it’s due to towing a trailer, a bicycle, or a spot that obscures part of the license plate. Potential penalties for those who fail to display their license plate correctly range from monetary fines to jail time. Those convicted of this offense can face fines of between $500 and $5,000. The exact amount depends on the severity of the violation and whether it’s a repeat offense.
On the other hand, offenders can face up to 60 days in jail for a misdemeanor, while more serious cases could result in a felony with longer prison sentences. The court may also impose a prison sentence. This may include periodic meetings with a probation officer, community service, and mandatory attendance at educational programs. A conviction may also result in the suspension of the offender’s driver’s license, which in a country like the United States is a serious punishment, as distances are not exactly short and public transportation does not always reach everyone’s needs.
