We’ve all been there: Driving down the freeway and the dreaded patrol lights turn on in your rearview mirror. This is when a driver glances down to see how fast he has been driving and how much trouble he may be in. Many drivers have received a traffic ticket in California and most just pay the fines and move on. But when is it worth fighting a traffic ticket?
First traffic ticket
A first traffic ticket can cost a driver around $230. A driver should also go to traffic school so that the ticket does not show up on their driving record. Their insurance company will see the Negligent Operator Treatment System (NOTS) points on their record and raise their rates.
Subsequent traffic tickets
If a person has received a second traffic ticket in 18 months and has already gone to traffic school, the insurance company will cancel their good driver discount and their insurance rate will increase. Because of the potential insurance increase, it may be a good time to hire an attorney to fight the ticket.
Speeds of over 100 MPH
When a person has been ticketed for driver over 100 MPH that is a major infraction. This situation definitely calls for an attorney to help fight the ticket. A major infraction will stay on a person’s driving record for 7 years and an insurance premium can triple. There can also be thousands of dollars in fines and a license suspension.
A legal professional who is skilled in misdemeanor crimes knows what is at stake for those who are facing a traffic ticket. They can advise their client on what their best options may be and fight the traffic ticket if necessary.