How Do I Fight A Traffic Ticket?
Only 3% of drivers who receive a speeding ticket contest their charge. While many people believe paying a small fine is better than dealing with the hassle of taking their case to court, the long term effects of that small fine may end up costing a lot more.
In most states, speeding tickets and other moving violations all result in penalty
points on your license being added to your permanent driving record. Too many points can lead to license suspensions and inflated insurance premiums that could cost you hundreds or even thousands of dollars over the years. Losing “safe driver” or “good-driver” discounts by pleading guilty to a speeding ticket (just paying the fine) can also increase your rates.
How can I contest a speeding ticket in court?
There are a variety of legal strategies that can help you win your speeding ticket case in court. Hiring an experienced traffic ticket attorney can greatly improve your chances of beating a speeding ticket due to their extensive knowledge of the traffic codes and civil protections, as well as the burden of proof required for a guilty verdict.
Common strategies include:
- Requesting information about the radar gun or other technology used in determining your speed
- Determining admissible versus inadmissible evidence
- Cross examining the officer
- Calling witnesses
- Testifying at your hearing
- Asking for continuances to delay your trial
- Use of photographs and records of the area where the ticket was issued
It’s important to understand your legal options when presented with a speeding or traffic ticket and know you are well within your legal rights to contest any charge issued against you.
If you are going to court, be aware that the judge may ask you for documented evidence of the last time your speedometer was checked. A claim that your speedometer was not properly calibrated will not dismiss your ticket.
Half of all speeding tickets contested in court are completely dismissed and many of the remaining cases are at least reduced. You have a lot more to gain than to lose by fighting your ticket in court.
If you have received a speeding ticket have it contested by an experienced
traffic ticket attorney. Get started by completing our short questionnaire.