Even if you’re a safe driver, there may come a point when you’re pulled over by police for violating one of the many rules of the road. For example, you could receive a ticket for speeding, running a red light or failure to use a turn signal.
Generally speaking, you have two options if you receive a traffic ticket:
- Pay the fine
- Go to court to fight the charges against you
While there are times when paying the fine makes more sense, you don’t want to necessarily do so if it will have a negative impact. For example, if you have several other traffic violations on your record, one more could result in an insurance premium increase and/or a license suspension.
If you decide to fight the charges, here are some of the many defense strategies to consider:
- Dispute the personal opinion of the officer: For instance, if the officer states that you made an unsafe turn, you can argue their point. Just because an officer issues a ticket based on their opinion doesn’t make them right.
- Dispute the evidence: If you have reason to believe that false evidence has been submitted, do your part in proving this.
- Prove that you had to violate the law: For example, if you were speeding to create distance between yourself and a distracted driver, share this with the court. Or maybe you committed a traffic violation because you became sick while driving. If you can prove that you had to violate the law or doing so was out of your control, it will definitely work in your favor.
In addition to interrupting your day and adding stress to your life, a traffic ticket can take a toll on your finances. Not to mention the fact that it could impair your ability to operate a motor vehicle in the future.
Think twice before you pay the fine associated with a traffic ticket. You may realize that you have a strong case, which should lead you to presenting your side of the story in court.
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