IIllinois Traffic Ticket Guide: Beat a Ticket and Save Your Insurance

Do I need a lawyer for my Illinois Traffic Ticket?

The bottom line is that you should always have legal advice when it comes to handling a traffic ticket.  No one should step into court without understanding their options and the consequences of a conviction. Receiving a traffic ticket and appearing in court can be confusing and stressful.  An experienced traffic ticket attorney can help guide you through the process and achieve the best outcome possible while minimizing the negative effect on your personal and professional life.

Do I have to go to court?

Your traffic ticket will usually indicate whether a court appearance is required.  However, the general rule is that you only have to appear if a conviction of the offense may result in possible jail time.  If you are unsure, you may contact the clerk of the court.  Regardless, it is important to understand that simply mailing in payment for your moving violation is a plea of guilty, which will result in a conviction.  The conviction will appear on your driving record.  Except under rare circumstances, it is important that you DO NOT mail in payment for your ticket.

Will a traffic ticket affect my auto insurance rates?

Your insurance rates may increase after receiving an Illinois traffic ticket.  Typically, your insurance rates will not increase if your traffic ticket is dismissed, you are found not guilty, or if you are placed on court supervision.  Increases in your insurance premium depend on the nature of the violation and your insurance policy.  Speak with a traffic ticket attorney or contact your insurance provider to find out the exact consequences on your auto insurance.

Will my license be suspended?

Traffic tickets may result in the suspension of your Illinois driver’s license. In Illinois, drivers with three moving violations within 12 months will have their license suspended for 3 months.  The length of suspension may be longer if the driver has been suspended previously.  For drivers who are younger than 21 years old, two moving violations in 24 months will cause a driver's license suspension.  Also, it is important to note that driving on a suspended license carries serious consequences and, in effect, doubles your suspension period.

Can I attend traffic school?

If you have a fairly clean driving record, you may have the option of taking traffic school and receiving court supervision for your moving violation.  Completing the requirements for traffic school will prevent a conviction from being entered on your record.  Typically, you must still appear in court to receive such a disposition.  Regardless, traffic school requires spending time and money that many drivers would like to avoid.  You may be able to avoid traffic school altogether by attending court with an experienced attorney.

Is supervision an option for a CDL Operator?

Court supervision on a traffic ticket will NOT prevent the cancellation of your commercial driver’s license.  Commercial drivers are subject to more severe license consequences than standard operators. CDL cases must be handled accordingly, often requiring an amendment to the original charge, or trial where appropriate.