Federal Motor Vehicle Charges
Most people think of traffic offenses and DUIs as state-level crimes. But when those offenses escalate into federal motor vehicle charges, the consequences become far more severe. You’re now facing federal prosecutors, harsher penalties, and a legal system that doesn’t cut corners while pursuing convictions.
These charges can include DUIs on federal property, vehicular manslaughter, transporting stolen vehicles across state lines, and even carjacking.
And unlike state cases, federal convictions often mean mandatory prison time and permanent criminal records.
At Simko Law Group, we know how aggressive federal prosecutors are when it comes to motor vehicle offenses—and we know exactly how to fight back. Our team is ready to challenge the evidence, protect your rights, and fight for the best possible outcome.
Types of Federal Motor Vehicle Charges
Federal vehicle offenses cover a wide range of crimes, most of which carry life-changing penalties and mandatory minimum sentences. The most common federal motor vehicle charges include:
- Federal DUI/DWI – Driving under the influence on federal lands, such as national parks, military bases, or government-owned roads (36 CFR § 4.23)
- Vehicular Manslaughter – Causing a fatal accident while driving on federal property can lead to serious felony charges (18 U.S.C. § 1112)
- Hit-and-Run on Federal Land – Leaving the scene of an accident without reporting it can escalate into a federal offense (18 U.S.C. § 13)
- Unlawful Use of a Government Vehicle – Unauthorized use or theft of a federally owned vehicle is a crime (18 U.S.C. § 641)
- Transporting Stolen Vehicles Across State Lines – Violating the National Motor Vehicle Theft Act (Dyer Act) can result in federal prison time (18 U.S.C. § 2312)
- Reckless Driving on Federal Property – High-speed or careless driving on federal land can carry severe consequences
- Carjacking – The violent theft of a vehicle is a major federal felony, often involving enhanced sentencing (18 U.S.C. § 2119)
Penalties for Federal Motor Vehicle Convictions
The penalties for federal motor vehicle crimes vary based on the severity of your offense, but convictions often result in federal prison time, steep fines, and long-term consequences.
See the table below to understand the potential penalties for your specific charge.
Federal Sentencing Guidelines for Motor Vehicle Crimes
| Charge | Minimum Sentence | Maximum Sentence |
|---|---|---|
| Federal DUI/DWI | Up to 6 months | 6 months + fines |
| Vehicular Manslaughter | 1 year | 8 years |
| Hit-and-Run on Federal Land | Up to 1 year | 5 years |
| Transporting Stolen Vehicles | Up to 10 years | 10 years |
| Carjacking | 15 years | Life |
| Unlawful Use of a Government Vehicle | Up to 1 year | 10 years |
Federal judges follow strict sentencing guidelines, and aggravating factors such as bodily harm, repeat offenses, or involvement with organized crime can lead to increased penalties.
The Federal Legal Process for Motor Vehicle Cases
- Investigation. Federal agencies such as the FBI, U.S. Park Police, or Department of Transportation investigators collect evidence. They may build their case by using surveillance footage, accident reconstruction reports, and witness testimonies.
- Arrest and Indictment. Once federal investigators gather enough evidence, prosecutors will seek an indictment through a grand jury, which leads to an arrest warrant.
- Arraignment and Bail. You appear in federal court for arraignment, where they hear the charges against them. In serious cases, bail may be denied if you’re deemed a flight risk.
- Pretrial Motions and Plea Bargains. As defense attorneys, we challenge the evidence, request case dismissal, or negotiate plea deals to secure a lesser charge.
- Trial and Sentencing. If no plea deal is reached, your case goes to trial. Federal trials are high-stakes, and sentences often include mandatory minimums for convictions.
Defense Strategies for Federal Motor Vehicle Charges
Conviction for a federal charge can change your life forever, but it’s not a sure thing. There are several effective defense strategies you may be able to leverage, including:
- Challenging jurisdiction – If prosecutors wrongly applied federal laws, your case could be dismissed
- Questioning the evidence – Breathalyzer results, accident reports, and eyewitness testimony can all be challenged for accuracy and reliability
- Lack of intent or knowledge – In cases involving stolen vehicles or unauthorized use, proving you were unaware of the situation may lead to dismissal
- Unlawful search and seizure – If evidence was gathered in violation of Fourth Amendment protections, it could be suppressed.
- Negotiating lesser charges – In some cases, a strategic attorney can secure a plea deal to reduce charges from felonies to misdemeanors
Take Action Now with a Federal Motor Vehicle Charges Lawyer On Your Side
Federal motor vehicle charges aren’t just glorified traffic tickets. These are serious criminal matters that can result in long-term consequences that forever change the course of your life.
If you’re facing charges, you need a legal team that:
- Understands federal transportation laws and how to challenge weak evidence
- Has a proven track record of negotiating with federal prosecutors to reduce or drop charges
- Knows how to push back against unlawful arrests and flawed investigations
- Will aggressively defend your case and fight to protect your future
At Simko Law Group, our highest commitment is helping clients avoid lengthy prison sentences and devastating criminal records. We do that by exposing weaknesses in the government’s case and crafting strategic defenses.
Time is critical—reach out today to start building your defense. Just call (561) 951-1264.
FAQs About Federal Motor Vehicle Charges
What makes a motor vehicle offense a federal crime?
A motor vehicle offense becomes a federal crime when it occurs on federal property, involves interstate transportation, or violates federal criminal statutes.
How does a federal DUI differ from a state DUI?
A federal DUI differs from a state DUI in that it happens on federal lands, such as national parks, military bases, or government roads, and is prosecuted under federal regulations with much harsher penalties.
Do you need a federal attorney for a motor vehicle case?
Yes, winning a positive outcome in a federal case requires an attorney with experience in federal courts, as procedures, sentencing, and prosecution strategies differ significantly from state-level cases.
If you’ve been charged with a federal motor vehicle offense, don’t wait to get legal help. Call the Federal Criminal Defense Law Firm Simko Law Group today at (561) 951-1264 for your free consultation. Your defense starts now.