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Getting a speeding ticket doesn’t just mean you’re out the cost of the ticket. Tickets make your insurance go up too. Speeding tickets can also add points to your driving record. If you get too many points, your license gets taken. This is why it’s so important to get out of a speeding ticket by any means possible. Here are the steps you can go through to avoid those tickets:
1. Plead “No Contest”
If you’ve never had a speeding ticket and you have a good driving record, go to your clerk of court to see if you can plead “no contest”. Pleading “no contest” can get the fine reduced, and prevent points from going on your license. Depending on the jurisdiction you live in, the ticket itself will not go on your record, and thus doesn’t get reported to your insurance company.
2. Check the Ticket For Any Mistakes or Errors.
If you can’t plead “no contest”, there are still ways you can get out of the ticket. If there is any mistake or error on the ticket, this gets your ticket dismissed. Even a tiny detail like the street name you were on can get the infraction dismissed by a judge.
3. Try and Get Your Court Date Rescheduled.
Often, if your court date gets rescheduled, the officer who gave you the ticket won’t show up. This allows you to explain your case. Without any input from the officer, the judge may decide to dismiss your ticket or get the fine reduced. This also increases the chances that points will not be added to your license.
4. If There is a Plea Bargain, Consider It.
If the judge offers you a plea bargain, consider taking it. The judge wants to keep you out of the court to save time and hassle. Often, the court will offer you a plea bargain that reduces the fine and keeps the ticket off your record. Sometimes plea bargains require a defensive driving course, a.k.a. traffic school, to keep points from being added to your record. However, taking a defensive driving course can get you an insurance discount.
5. Show Up to Every Court Date.
While showing up to court may not seem worth the hassle, keep in mind that traffic court doesn’t expect you to show up. Just appearing at your court date significantly increases the chances of getting out of the ticket completely. Taking a day off work is worth the speeding fine, insurance premium increases, and possible driver’s education fees.
6. Complete a “Trial By Declaration”.
If you got the speeding ticket while out of town, you can submit to the court what is called a “trial by declaration”. In a trial by declaration, both you and the officer send your statements in writing to the traffic court judge. A trial by declaration does not require either parties to be present, but still gives them the opportunity to tell their sides of the story. You can find the required forms at the clerk of court’s office.
7. Offer to Take a Traffic School/ Defensive Driving Course
If the judge declares you guilty, there are still other options for you to take. Offer to take a defensive driving course. You may still have to pay the speeding ticket and court costs, but driving classes can get you a significant insurance discount. Often, if you agree to take classes, the points that were added on to your record will be removed once you complete the course.
These are the steps you can take to get out of a speeding ticket. Even if you haven’t received a speeding ticket recently, you may want to consider taking driver’s education courses. Here is some basic information about driving classes:
What is a Driver Improvement Program
Depending on your circumstances, you may have the option to complete traffic school/defensive driving online or in the classroom. A typical driver’s education course includes defensive driving techniques, methods for driving in bad weather, and traffic laws.
If your traffic violation can’t be dismissed or you won’t qualify for a car insurance discount, a driver improvement program can still be a beneficial investment to improve both your driving knowledge and behavior.
Why Should You Consider a Driver Improvement Program?
There are numerous benefits to taking driver improvement classes such as defensive driving/traffic school courses. Not only may you become eligible for safe driver discounts on your car insurance, but you will become a better driver. You will decrease the likelihood of getting tickets in the future or getting into accidents.
If you’ve recently received a speeding ticket, there are steps you can take to save money and keep your good driving record intact. When you get out of the ticket, you may want to consider driver improvement classes to prevent another ticket in the future.
- Find out the fines and costs associated with a speeding ticket in Virginia in our comprehensive guide on How much is a Speeding Ticket in Virginia?
fighting a ticket for speeding and how to remove it from your driving record
If you’re facing traffic tickets for exceeding the speed limit, it’s essential to understand your options. Often, attending a driving school can help reduce fines and penalties associated with speeding tickets in California. Before your court appearances, gather your contact information and any evidence that may help your case. Remember, insurance rates can skyrocket after a speeding conviction, so consider the long-term financial impact. When contesting tickets fines, especially those alleging you were driving over the posted speed limit, prepare to discuss the specifics of your case, including trial dates and the circumstances under which you allegedly violated the law. For those holding a commercial drivers license, the stakes are even higher, as motor vehicles used for commercial purposes have strict compliance requirements. Assess if it’s worth fighting the ticket, keeping in mind both the immediate cost and the potential increase in auto insurance premiums. If you have a regular drivers license and are contemplating paying the fine, be aware that this is equivalent to a guilty plea. Alternatively, pleading not guilty may require an appearance in court but could save you from costly fines and penalties.
speeding tickets and ways to get out of a speeding ticket
The decision to pay your fine or contest in court should be made after careful consideration. If you opt to plead guilty, be prepared for the impact on your insurance premiums and driving record. This ultimate guide aims to provide comprehensive advice for those dealing with traffic violations and contemplating the best course of action. Consider the court costs and consult with your insurance company before making a decision. Remember, a speeding fine can affect more than just your wallet; it can impact your future driving privileges and insurance costs.
make sure to save money with tickets
In this scenario, revisiting the importance of adhering to the speed limit and the benefits of enrolling in a driving school cannot be overstated. These measures not only improve your driving skills but also demonstrate your commitment to safe driving, which can be advantageous in mitigating the consequences of traffic tickets. When you receive a traffic citation, understanding how to get it resolved is crucial. To dispute the ticket, you should first come prepared with a clear understanding of the specific vehicle code you allegedly violated. One effective approach is to remove any ambiguity about your speed at the time of the incident. Using a speed calculator can help provide a factual basis for your argument. It’s also helpful to keep all relevant cards in your hand – figuratively speaking – which includes gathering any evidence that supports your case. When interacting with the officer or in court, make sure to be respectful and articulate. Remember, you have the right to contest a traffic ticket, and a thorough understanding of the law is your best asset in this process. Carefully planning your approach can significantly increase your chances of a favorable outcome.
