A traffic ticket is issued by an officer when they believe someone has violated traffic laws. This violation may be considered an infraction or misdemeanor based on the factors of the offense. If you were issued a traffic ticket, you may be worried about how this may affect your record and whether your insurance rates will increase. Many people consider fighting a traffic ticket in hopes that they can avoid draining the bank while also protecting their driving history from being tarnished.
The first thing you must do after being given a traffic ticket is to understand the charges against you. What exact traffic law has the officer accused you of violating? Jot down everything you remember, from being pulled over to what the officer said to you, and the verbal or written instructions for handling the ticket. Find out which court is processing your ticket and any other specifications on what to do next. Examples of common driving offenses include:
- Speeding
- Running a red light
- Not fully halting at stop sign
- Failing to yield
- Tailgating
- Unsafe lane change
If you don’t know whether your ticket is worth fighting against, consider your current driving history, insurance rates, and the potential impacts to your future. If the ticket is a minor offense and you don’t have points on your driving record, then you may be permitted to take a driver’s education course as a way to amend the ticket. However, if your ticket is more serious than you may need a lawyer to help you fight it.
As a Speeding Ticket Attorney from Rispoli & Borneo P.C. can attest, depending on the circumstances and severity, a traffic ticket may be worth fighting. Drivers are encouraged to learn more about the offense they are accused of and become informed about their options in fighting or reducing the ticket.