Should I Fight My Traffic Violation? Can I Beat a Ticket?

You have been stopped by local law enforcement for a moving violation. Maybe you accidentally ran a red light; maybe you were driving faster than the speed limit; maybe you forgot to use your turn signal. For whatever reason, you now have a hefty fine to pay. What do you do? Do you simply write a check and mail it to the court; or do you fight the charges? If you have any inclination that your ticket citation may have been erroneously or otherwise illegally issued, you should consider fighting your traffic violation.

Is It Always Cheaper to Pay The Fine?

Does the law enforcement officer have you dead to rights, or do you feel that the ticket was unjustified? Are you going to end up paying more, because you choose to contest the ticket?

Before you decide, you need to consider the "hidden costs". When you pay a fine for a traffic violation, it goes on your driving record. In turn, the record is supplied to your insurance company. As a result, your insurance may go up substantially, especially if this is not your first offense or you are a young person. Secondly, you will likely have to pay court costs, if you are found guilty. Finally, most states consider the number of violations you have accrued over a period, or they take into consideration a points system. If you have exceeded either, you could lose your license for a month, a year, or maybe even longer. Therefore, you will want factor in all of these variables before you make your decision.

Amending a Traffic Ticket: What does it Mean?

In many jurisdictions, the prosecutor is allowed to amend the ticket. For example, if you have been caught driving way over the speed limit, but you were polite and respectful with the officer, the prosecutor, upon request, may amend the ticket to reflect a lesser violation or even a non-moving violation, instead of really slamming you with a steep fine and the conviction for a moving violation. It is always in your best interest to inquire whether amendment is an option and know the additional costs.

Do I Need a Lawyer to Amend a Traffic Ticket?

The answer to this question is up to you. However, a lawyer who specializes in traffic violations may be able to get the ticket amended to a non-moving violation, which would greatly reduce your insurance costs, and more. You should call and schedule an appointment or consultation, so you may weigh your options and decide.

Getting Legal Help for a Traffic Ticket

If you have been stopped by a law enforcement officer who gave you a ticket, you may want to seek legal counsel. In answer to the question of whether you should fight your traffic violation, you will have to decide how it may affect your insurance costs, your job prospects, and the points system. If your traffic ticket is going to cost you more than a few bucks and a little inconvenience, you may want to talk to a traffic tickets lawyer specializing in traffic court.

• The content of this article is provided for informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice. If you need advice regarding a traffic violation, click here to talk to Mark Hagen or a Traffic Attorney serving your area.