Suspensions vs. Revocations

Suspensions vs. Revocations

1. Suspensions:
   1. Definition: Privilege to drive is suspended for some definitive period of time (one year or less); license privilege is typically restored after this period without the necessity of a DAAD hearing.
   2. Most Common Offenses Resulting in Suspension:
      1. OWI First Offense; OWI High BAC
      2. Possession of Controlled Substances
      3. Point Accumulation
      4. Most Criminal Offenses other than OWI Death/Injury
      5. Routine/Temporary Medical Issues
2. Revocations:
   1. Definition: Privilege to drive is revoked and denied; license privilege is not restored unless/until DAAD restores privilege, and usually after a significant waiting period. No privileges are allowed during a revocation, and courts have little—if any—ability to intervene to override a revocation.
   2. Most Common Offenses Resulting in Revocation:
      1. OWI Second or Subsequent Offense
      2. OWI Injury/Death
      3. Serious Medical Issues
   3. Typical Waiting Periods:
      • 1 Year for two OWI offenses within 7 years or OWI Injury/Death
      • 5 Years for three OWI offenses within 10 years (assuming prior revocation)

Most Common Ways to Lose MI Driver’s License:

1. OWI
2. OWI Causing Serious Bodily Injury/Death
3. OWI Repeat Offenses
4. OWI High BAC (“Super Drunk” allegations)
5. OWI Refusals (Implied Consent Violations)
6. Miscellaneous Criminal Offenses:
   1. Possession of Controlled Substances
   2. Flee/Elude Police
   3. Felony Vehicle Advisory (MCL 257.319)
   4. Automobile Theft/Joyriding
   5. Reckless Driving
7. Point Accumulation
8. Medical Issues
9. Accidents Resulting in Fatalities
10. Probationary Drivers with Points

Mount Pleasant, Michigan Lawyer Todd Levitt has been specializing in restoring driving privileges for more than 18 years.

Todd can be reached for a free consultation at 989-772-6000