Zealous Criminal Defense Representation

3 reasons to fight pending traffic tickets

On Behalf of | Oct 6, 2024 | Traffic Violations |

Many people accused of violating traffic statutes don’t see the value in fighting a pending ticket. Frequently, motorists simply pay their citations when a police officer issues a ticket. They may also plead guilty to serious traffic violations that are technically crimes, such as reckless driving.

While that may seem like the most expedient solution, it is not necessarily the best option available. Quite a few people do decide to fight their traffic tickets, and with good reason. There are numerous benefits derived from successfully defending against traffic citations in court.

Avoiding demerit points

The state tracks every citation issued and assesses demerit points based on the severity of the traffic violation. Those points remain on a motorist’s record for two years. If they accrue too many points, they may be at risk of a driver’s license suspension. While points do come off of someone’s record after 24 months and they can take certain steps to reduce their demerit points, avoiding them by fighting a ticket is often the best option available.

Preserving a commercial driver’s license

Many people have jobs that require driving. If they have to maintain a commercial driver’s license (CDL), a traffic ticket could be a major obstacle to their professional development. In cases involving safety-critical violations, they may become immediately ineligible for a CDL. Other times, employers may take issue with having a motorist on the road after a citation because they are liable if one of their employees causes a crash while on the clock. Preserving career options and a CDL can be a good reason to fight a pending traffic ticket.

Avoiding insurance premium increases

The amount that people pay for their motor vehicle liability insurance policy depends on the risk they represent. The more traffic violations someone has on their recent record, the more they may have to pay for insurance. Recent citations can increase annual premium costs by hundreds of dollars. Some drivers may even become ineligible for the policies they used to carry.

Reviewing the situation that led to a traffic ticket with a skilled legal team could help motorists determine if fighting a citation is the best solution available. Depending on the kind of ticket issued, there may be several different ways to fight a pending citation.