A MarketWatch Guides survey found that the average American driver receives at least two speeding tickets in their lives and that over 30% of all drivers say they have been caught in a speed trap.
If you are involved in a crash, police may investigate and give a ticket to the person at fault. If a driver breaks traffic laws, it increases the risk of causing a car accident. Auto accident attorney Matthew Joseph Olivarez says negligent motorists are responsible for accidents that result in whiplash injuries or broken bones. These injuries can have long-term or even lifelong effects on victims.
You have a reason to fight a traffic ticket if you believe you did not commit any traffic violation. You might have been stopped for speeding, running a red light, or failing to do a full stop. Regardless of the reason, you may be wondering whether you must simply pay the ticket or if you have the option to fight it.
In this article, you will learn the advantages of hiring a lawyer to help you contest your traffic ticket.
Understanding Your Rights Regarding Traffic Tickets
You should know your rights if you are charged with a traffic crime. You can choose to fight the ticket or accept it if you know your rights.
You can contest the ticket in court without admitting guilt. The officers have the right to produce evidence against you during a hearing, during which you have the opportunity to defend yourself.
You can say that the officer did not follow the proper procedures in your defense. You have the right to request everything against you and in your defense, such as the officer’s notes and radar readings.
According to https://www.huffmankendrick.com/, whether you’ve been accused of reckless driving, a hit and run, speeding or driving without a valid license, a traffic violation lawyer can assert your rights effectively and counter unsupported allegations.
Common Reasons to Fight a Traffic Ticket
You need to learn your rights first before planning to challenge a traffic ticket. Understanding the topics commonly used to fight a traffic ticket will help you decide whether to pursue an action or not.
You are entitled to fight the traffic ticket if you disagree with the traffic charge brought against you. Your ticket could be dismissed if the cop’s report indicated that your car was of a different color or a different make or model.
Presenting evidence that supports your innocence, such as dashcam footage, can be another reason to fight a traffic ticket. You can claim that you were wrongly given a traffic ticket for obstructed or unclear signs.
If you feel you can prove that the officer did not adhere to proper procedure during your stop, you may have a viable case. Every case is different, so consider carefully.
The Benefits of Hiring a Traffic Lawyer
Having a traffic lawyer to defend you enhances the probability of successfully contesting a ticket. They are knowledgeable about traffic laws and know how to see a case through to its conclusion.
Your traffic lawyer will take on your case and defend you by investigating and collecting evidence to support your defense. A lawyer boosts your confidence by effectively representing you before a court.
The lawyer can make arrangements for you to pay lower fines, reduce the points on your driving license, or get the case dismissed. Save your time and energy by hiring a lawyer who will negotiate on your behalf.
Engaging a traffic lawyer can significantly improve the outcome of your case and safeguard your rights.
Steps to Take When Contesting a Ticket
Check the date, time, and place of the alleged offense if you decide to fight the ticket. Prepare to gather photographs, witness testimony, or dashcam footage. These documents or records can be used as evidence to support your case.
Research the traffic laws relevant to your case after you have collected enough proof. You will come to understand your rights and the specific regulations involved in your case during evidence gathering.
Carefully think about whether you want to represent yourself or seek the assistance of a lawyer. Fighting the ticket without legal counsel means you need to practice presenting it clearly before the court.
Once you are ready, proceed to court and confidently present your case. Be prepared to answer any questions posed by the judge or prosecution.
Potential Outcomes of Fighting a Traffic Citation
When you fight a ticket, there can be several possible outcomes from the cost of your effort. Occasionally you win the case and get the ticket dismissed with no fine or points attached against your license.
If you lose, you will probably have to pay a fine, have points attached against your license, or even have increased insurance rates levied against you. The other option is a settlement, wherein you agree to a lesser offense and a lesser fine. If you get an attorney to appear for you, their legal skills and expertise will affect your chances of a favorable result.
Use the evidence, your driving history, and the case’s unique circumstances to make decisions. Assess these matters before making any decisions.
