Don't Let a Second Cell Phone Use Ticket Cost You More: Hire a Traffic Attorney
In Kings County, CA, a second cell phone use ticket can have a significant financial impact.
With the introduction of AB-47, Distracted Driving, an amendment to CA Vehicle Code (VC) Section 23123.5, Driving Offenses, the DMV now assesses a Negligent Operator Treatment System (NOTS) point for a second conviction or paid fine.
Understanding the Impact of AB-47
Prior to AB-47, the primary concern with a second cell phone ticket was the $260 fine. However, adding a NOTS pointhas significantly increased the potential costs.
Insurance companies often raise rates for drivers with NOTS points, leading to a substantial financial burden.
The Financial Impact of a Second Cell Phone Ticket
For the average California driver, the combined effect of fines, increased insurance premiums, and the loss of a “good driver's discount” of 20% can result in an annual cost of around $790 annually due to a second cell phone ticket conviction.
These points will linger on your driving record for three years.
This raised premium is an average, and yours could be more or less, depending on many factors the insurance companies use to determine your rate.
The Importance of Legal Representation
It's crucial to consult a traffic attorney before paying the fine for any cell phone ticket to avoid these costly consequences.
An experienced traffic lawyer can assess your situation to determine if it's worth disputing the ticket.
Why You Should Hire a Traffic Attorney for Every Mobile Phone Use Ticket
As stated above, a second mobile phone use ticket can add points to your driving record, increase your insurance rates dramatically, and risk a driving privilege suspension if you accumulate too many points.
Hiring a knowledgeable traffic attorney to dispute every cell phone use ticket is wise.
The Benefits of Hiring a Traffic Attorney
Potential to Dismiss Charges: An experienced traffic attorney may be able to identify errors or inconsistencies in the citation, leading to a potential dismissal.
Reduced Fines: Even if a dismissal is not possible, an attorney may be able to negotiate reduced, no-point penalties.
Avoid Increased Insurance Premiums: By preventing a conviction, an attorney can help you maintain your good driver's discount and avoid higher insurance rates.
An experienced attorney understands the legal system, knows how to challenge the evidence, and can negotiate on your behalf.
In many cases, a traffic attorney may be able to reduce the charge to a lesser no-point offense or get the ticket dismissed, protecting your driving record and saving you money overall.
Consult Bigger & Harman, APC, About Every Cell Phone Use Ticket
If you receive a cell phone use ticket that needs to be resolved in Hanford Courthouse in Kings County, CA, call Bigger & Harman, APC, at (661) 349-9300—Se habla Español 349-9755.
By challenging every ticket, you minimize the risk of a second conviction, the long-term penalties that could impact your ability to drive, and your family budget.
Use our handy contact form, or email us at attorney@biggerharmanlaw.com.
References:
CA VC 23123.5, Driving Offenses, and AB-47, Distracted Driving.
The CA Driver Handbook English y Español.
The Bankrate.com article, Average cost of car insurance in CA for 2024.