Disputing Your Traffic Tickets in California: Protect Your Rights and Save Money
Understanding your rights and options is essential when dealing with traffic tickets in California. This guide will discuss common citations, the importance of legal counsel, and the benefits of hiring a traffic attorney.
Common Traffic Violations in California
California courts take traffic violations seriously. Here are some frequent infractions:
- Speeding
- Red light violations
- Stop sign violations
- Improper U-turns
- Using a cell phone while driving
- Seatbelt violations
These infractions typically come with fines ranging from $237 to $490.
However, the real cost can be much higher. Unless you’re eligible to attend traffic violator school (TVS), which can mask the offense and prevent a rise in auto insurance premiums, you could end up paying much more for auto insurance.
However, always discuss your eligibility and the financial benefit of attendance, as pleading guilty and attending TVS could box you in a corner, and you could end up paying more than necessary for no reason.
In fact, your premiums could increase by an average of $687 annually for three years while the conviction stays on your motor vehicle driving record (MVR). Considering a potential loss of your "good driver discount," a seemingly minor infraction could cost almost $2,000 over those three years. Hiring a traffic attorney can be a wise investment.
Misdemeanor Traffic Offenses
Some offenses are more serious misdemeanors, including:
- Reckless driving
- Driving without a license
- Driving with a suspended license
- Speed contests
- Exhibitions of speed
- Hit-and-run with property damage
If you face such charges, remember you have rights and options. Consult a knowledgeable traffic attorney before talking to law enforcement or court officials.
Disputing Your Traffic Tickets in California
Here are some key steps to take:
- Get Informed: Consult a CA-licensed traffic attorney to understand your rights and options as a driver.
- Gather Evidence: Document the incident while the details are fresh. Take pictures, collect witness statements, and gather relevant documents supporting your case.
- Talk to a Traffic Attorney: An attorney can be a game-changer. They can guide you through the process, explain your legal options, and help build a strong defense.
Benefits of Hiring a Traffic Attorney
Many drivers hesitate to hire a lawyer due to cost concerns. However, a traffic attorney can provide significant advantages:
- Reduced Charges: An attorney may persuade the judge to reduce your charges.
- Negotiate Favorable Outcomes: They may negotiate a non-moving violation that doesn't impact your insurance.
- Traffic School Eligibility: They can seek court approval for TVS attendance in many cases where you were not originally eligible.
- Potential Dismissal: In some cases, they may get your ticket dismissed entirely.
- Expert Legal Guidance: They can provide tailored advice specific to your situation and handle all necessary paperwork.
- Protect Your Rights: They ensure your rights are protected and your voice is heard in court.
- Court Representation: They can represent you at trial, allowing you to avoid missing work or school.
- A Flat Fee: Many drivers worry they will be charged an outrageous hourly rate or have to pay an expensive retainer, and without knowing how many hours it will take to resolve the ticket, they fear it will be unaffordable. Traffic attorneys typically charge a flat fee to resolve your ticket.
An experienced traffic attorney can leverage various strategies to dispute your ticket. For instance, they can pursue dismissal if the officer who issued the ticket doesn't appear in court.
Additionally, they may be able to negotiate reduced charges if the prosecution's case is weak, challenge faulty speed measuring devices, or raise questions about the officer's training on the device used.
Don't face traffic tickets alone. Contact a qualified traffic attorney today to protect your rights and save money.
Consult Bigger & Harman About Disputing Your Traffic Tickets in Tulare
Contact Bigger & Harman at 349-9300 about disputing traffic tickets in Tulare County, CA.
Call Bigger & Harman at (661) 349-9300 when you need a traffic ticket defended in Porterville or Visalia Courthouse in Tulare County, CA. Se habla Español (661) 349-9755.
Otherwise, use our convenient-to-use contact form or email attorney@biggerharmanlaw.com.