It can be nerve-wracking if you are facing a traffic ticket in Lamont, CA, especially considering its potential impact on your motor vehicle driving record (MVR) and auto insurance premium.
This blog post explains the possible consequences and how a traffic attorney can guide you through the process of resolving a traffic ticket.
The Hidden Cost of a Paid Fine or Conviction: Increased Insurance Costs
While paying the fine might seem like a quick fix, the story doesn't end there.
After a paid fine, the CA DMV assesses a Negligent Operator Treatment System (NOTS) point for minor infractions. This point stays on your record for three years, affecting your "good driver discount" and ultimately raising your insurance rates.
This could translate into an estimated yearly increase of around $850 for the average CA driver.
“Full coverage car insurance costs an average of $2,692 per year in California. The average cost for state minimum coverage is $653 per year. The average monthly premium for minimum coverage in California is $54. The average monthly premium for full coverage is $224 in California.”—Bankrate.com.
The above figures are from the Bankrate.com website and may not reflect what you pay. The price of auto insurance coverage varies widely across CA. For instance, those in LA pay a much higher premium than those in Lamont and other areas of Kern County, even Bakersfield.
According to Bankrate, the average driver in LA pays $2,988 annually, while the average driver in Bakersfield pays $2,544. Remember, these are average figures.
Therefore, a driver with a teen on their policy will pay a much higher rate, around $6,000 annually, than those “empty nesters” with an excellent driving record. Many factors determine your insurance premium; the most significant is your motor vehicle driving record (MVR).
Demystifying NOTS Points from Traffic Tickets
Even seemingly minor infractions, ineligible for Traffic Violator School (TVS), can result in one NOTS point. This could remove your good driver discount of 20%. When your provider learns of your paid fine, usually at renewal, they could remove your good driver’s discount and add the risk warranted by your infraction. That’s typically 10 to 12%.
While TVS allows confidentiality for one guilty plea under specific circumstances, subsequent violations within 18 to 36 months can trigger significant insurance hikes. Likewise, some conditions make it financially unfeasible to attend TVS. If you have two or more traffic tickets, only one will be held confidential, so you’ll still pay more.
Likewise, there are instances where you are not eligible for attendance, and if you don’t complete the course before the court-ordered date, all bets are off. You wasted your time and money, and the NOTS point will be added to your MVR. Always discuss attendance with a CA traffic attorney.
Navigating the System with a Traffic Attorney
An experienced traffic attorney can be invaluable in navigating the traffic court system and understanding local procedures.
They can meticulously review your ticket, analyze your TVS eligibility, and explore all possible defense strategies. Their primary objective is to minimize the impact on your driving record and, consequently, your insurance rates.
What We Can Do:
- Ticket Analysis: We'll thoroughly assess the specific violation and identify potential defense strategies. Many technicalities could warrant a dismissal or reduced no-point conviction.
- Negotiation: We'll advocate for a reduced charge or dismissal with the prosecutor.
- Court Representation: We will represent you in traffic court proceedings. Regardless of how many appearances we must make to resolve your ticket, the fee will not increase.
- TVS Guidance: We'll ensure you understand the TVS requirements. Never use TVS attendance to resolve a correctable ticket, such as no proof of insurance in possession or loud exhaust. These violations do not warrant NOTS points.
Don't let a traffic ticket disrupt your peace of mind or finances. Contact us today for an initial consultation to determine your best resolution option. We're here to clarify your options and fight for a favorable outcome.
Remember, a traffic attorney can be your trusted advisor during this process. We'll answer your questions and guide you every step of the way.
Contact Bigger & Harman, The Bakersfield Traffic Ticket Team of Traffic Attorneys
If you have a traffic ticket that needs resolution in Lamont Courthouse in Kern County, contact the Bakersfield Traffic Ticket Team of Bigger & Harman, APC. Give us a call at (661) 349-9300. Se habla Español (661) 349-9755.
Use the contact form to schedule a consultation, or email us at attorney@biggerharmanlaw.com.
References:
The Bankrate.com article, Average cost of car insurance in CA for 2024.
The CA DMV Negligent Operator Treatment System (NOTS) Webpage.