The problem of traffic violation and tickets is quite common with drivers. These violative acts may be as minor as speeding violation or major, such as reckless driving. Knowing precisely how the cases are translated in court is especially crucial to maintaining a clean record of driving and avoiding heavy fines and penalties.
Common Types of Traffic Violations
- Speeding: This is one of the most rampant offenses. It means one has exceeded the speed above the limit that from what has been imposed for a particular zone. The fines that are incurred depend on how far above the speeding limit you were moving at.
- Red Light or Running Stop Sign: These are fines on your driving record and license points.
- Reckless Driving: The police say reckless driving is driving in blatant disregard for safety. The offenses attract heavy penalties upon conviction that include license suspension.
- Driving Without a Valid License: Where an operator has no valid license, sanctions include fines, impoundment of the vehicle, and even arrest.
- Seatbelt Violations: Failure to wear seatbelts, or failure of the driver to have his passengers wear their seatbelts, can lead to fines.
- DUI/DWI: This is rated as the most egregious kind of offense, which can put one in jeopardy of license suspension, huge fines, and even imprisonment.
Actions to Be Taken Immediately After Getting a Traffic Ticket
- Keep Calm and Be Polite: You should respond actively but always maintain your cool, as the police offer may decide your fate by this attitude at the stop.
- Check the ticket for accuracy of information: your name, date, location, and the nature of violation.
- Know the available options: usually, one has three: pay up the fine, contest the ticket, or traffic school if one is eligible to attend.
How to Contest a Traffic Ticket
If you feel that you have been unfairly given a traffic ticket, then there is always room to dispute it. These steps will help you contest a traffic ticket:
- Gather Evidence: Take photos of the accident/injury scene and get witness statements—but also secure any other type of evidence, including dash cam video, related to proving your case.
- Demand a Day in Court: On the ticket, fill in a not guilty plea and request a hearing using the information contained on the ticket.
- Prepare Your Case: Then, get together all of your evidence and discuss it with a traffic lawyer for an attorney’s advice if desired.
- Presenting Your Case: Clearly and briefly present your evidence in the hearing. Showing respect and objectivity when testifying.
Take Traffic School
Occasionally traffic school is offered to massage a few of those points off your driving record, helping reduce insurance premiums. State and nature of violation determine if an individual can attend traffic school or not. A traffic school course conveys sincerity in adhering to traffic rules and therefore cushions the ripple effect of the ticket.
Consequences of a Traffic Violation
- Fines: Lists of financial penalties vary by infraction and county.
- Points on Your License: Too many points will increase your insurance rates and suspend your license.
- Higher Insurance Rates: Traffic infractions raise auto insurance rates.
- Suspension or Revocation of Your License: Heinous offenses or repeated offenses, depending upon the nature of offense, may revoke the driving privileges of a person.
Avoid Traffic Infractions
- Keep Your Speed Down: Observe your speed at any time. Do not go above the legal limits.
- Follow Traffic Signals: Go by the traffic lights and signs.
- Avoid Distractions: Direct your attention to the road; never drive using a phone.
- Never Drive Drunk: Never drive after drinking alcohol or if you have used drugs.