Got A Traffic Ticket? Here Are Your Next Steps

Nobody likes to receive traffic tickets, for obvious reasons. It can have a serious impact on your ability to drive, and if your career involves driving, you could be in big trouble. For a lot of people, getting a traffic ticket simply results in paying for the ticket and going to traffic school. This is to allow them to learn from their mistakes, and move past it.



However, some people may choose to dispute their ticket, or their ticket may be so serious that it requires court action. That’s when things change.

There are two main ways to receive a traffic ticket: moving, and nonmoving violations. Moving violations include speeding and running a red light. Non-moving violations include double parking or parking on a sidewalk, where signs do not specify you can do so.

You should be avoiding dangerous, life-threatening driving at all costs. The ramifications and trouble of such an act aren’t worth it, and it’s important to stay safe. If you do find yourself with a ticket, however, these are your next steps.

Firstly: Do Not Ignore The Ticket

Ignoring it won’t make it go away. If you don’t pay the required ticket amount, the ticket will remain on your record and you could even lose your license. You could even be arrested and be asked to shell out even more! Your best bet is to simply cough up, and attend traffic school. That way, the whole thing will be over and done with quickly.

However, if you plan to dispute your ticket, you should get in touch with the relevant authorities. You may feel that your ticket was issued unfairly, or unjustly. Across the globe, there are stories of people who have been caught speeding while rushing to hospital, for example. In this case, you would have genuine grounds to take the fine right to court.

Secondly: Seek Legal Advice

If you choose to dispute the ticket for whatever reason, this is your next move. There are certain people who specialize in this area of law, such as a traffic defense attorney, and you may need advice. It’s quite a complex area of law, especially if you don’t have sufficient grounds to dispute. You’ll need to be aggressive and assertive, with a solid defense.



You may also have to appear in court by the very nature of the ticket. This is usually reserved for more dangerous offences, such as going over the speed limit by thirty miles. If you are given a court date, it’s vital that you attend it. Failure to do so can result in a jail sentence, loss of license or hefty fine.

Thirdly: Traffic School

If this is your first ticket, and you choose not to dispute, you can attend traffic school. You’ll be awarded a certificate at the end of the course, and will receive a reduction in license points and insurance for your troubles. Some states allow you to attend traffic school every year, or every 18 months. If you aren’t sure, contact your local DMV or government office.

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