TRAFFIC VIOLATIONS

Yes, all traffic violations appear as points on your record. If you accumulate too many points you can be considered a high risk driver and your license may be suspended or revoked.

Any traffic violation that you receive goes towards points on your record. Insurance companies assign points to their customers which they use to assign rates to drivers. The more points you have, the more you will likely have to pay for insurance. Most insurance companies can see your entire driving history. On average, rates increase 73% for reckless driving and 20% for speeding and failure to stop.

Like other parts of the justice system, traffic courts follow certain procedures, and it is important to know what they are in order to successfully challenge a traffic violation. Here are some basic rules to observe when seeking to get a ticket overturned with the help of your lawyer:

1. When you receive your ticket, make note of all deadlines and addresses for interacting with the court. Failure to comply with deadlines will make challenging your ticket impossible.

2. If you plead “not guilty” to a ticket, you’ll receive a trial date. At the trial, your lawyer can argue the law that was applied when the ticket was issued, question the police officer who issued the ticket, present evidence to aid your case and call witnesses.

3. Some types of tickets, such as a faulty tail-light or driving without your registration, can be resolved in your favor by showing that the problem has been fixed.

Yes, like other violations of the law you have the right to face your accuser and present a defense against your charge in a court of law.

We would suggesting consulting with an attorney about your situation. However, in most cases we do recommend going to court to defend your case and minimize penalties such as insurance rate increases, heavy fines, or jail time.