The Smart Approach to Traffic Tickets

Getting a traffic or speeding ticket is without a doubt an annoying experience. The majority of people opt to pay the fine since it seems to be the fastest resolution. The trouble of a ticket, however, is usually much more annoying in the long run. There is the fine itself, and then the fact that paying the ticket ‘in full’ removes the option to fight it and protects you by default. That could mean getting points on your driving record, an increase in insurance rates, or even a cascading suspension. If all of this is the case, choosing to pay without fighting a ticket is almost always the worst option.

The damage a ticket does far exceeds the fine itself. When you pay a ticket, you effectively ding your insurance company with the bad news that you are a riskier driver. Your rates often do go up ‘significantly’ in a manner that can be sustained for many years. A single ticket can cost you hundreds if not thousands of dollars in escalated insurance rates over a period. Additionally, a plethora of points on your driving record, may also lead to a suspension of your license, which can make it difficult to get to work or take care of other ongoing responsibilities.

Beyond the monetary aspects, a conviction may impact job placement opportunities, particularly for individuals in jobs requiring the use of a vehicle. The impacts are typically concealed, which is why paying the fine without planning for the consequences is likely an error that a lot of people make.

As seen, the legal procedures with regard to traffic violations are more entangled than they seem. The officer's notes, the calibration of their speed-measuring device, and adherence to proper procedures all count. A trained legal professional is familiar with the necessary procedures and knows what to search for, from technical blunders to mismatches in the officer's report. They can point out the weaker areas of the prosecution’s case that the average person would miss.

A lawyer can also act on your behalf, so you may not have to appear in court. With a lawyer, the prosecutors can be approached for a charge reduction or consequence minimization. This can lead to a lowered fine, less severe points, or even dismissal of the case. For many, the lack of worry that comes with expertise in the process is well worth the cost.

There are quite a few defenses to explore when fighting traffic & speeding tickets. For example, improper calibration or misuse of the speed-measuring device can be argued. Questioning the officer's visual estimate of your speed or arguing that an emergency compelled your speed also serve as valid defenses.

In many instances, a legal professional can negotiate a plea bargain to a non-moving violation, such as a parking ticket, which carries a smaller fine and no impact on your driving record or insurance. Again, while no outcome is ever guaranteed, having a professional evaluate your case and present a defense increases your chance of a favorable resolution to the case, which protects your finances and driving record for the long term.