The answer to the question can I dispute an illegal U-turn ticket in Hanford Courthouse in Kings County, CA, is not as straightforward as it seems.
Certainly, the easy answer is yes. However, various circumstances make it unwise or financially imprudent.
For instance, consulting a traffic attorney could reveal a much cheaper route, such as using a Trial By Written Declaration, attending Traffic Violator School (TVS), or allowing a traffic attorney to negotiate a no-point, non-moving violation, all of which could keep your auto insurance stable.
However, you should discuss your option with a Kings County traffic attorney with Bigger & Harman, as not all options will work in specific situations.
Can I Dispute an Illegal U-Turn Ticket in Hanford Courthouse in Kings County, CA?
Can I dispute an illegal U-turn ticket? Yes, you can contest it in court, which may help protect your driving record and reduce financial impacts.
Consulting a skilled traffic attorney familiar with Kings County, CA, can be your best defense against these charges.
Understanding the Impact of an Illegal U-Turn Ticket
An illegal U-turn ticket may seem minor, but it carries hidden consequences. The initial fine is typically $238, but the ripple effects include higher insurance premiums and DMV Negligent Operator Treatment System (NOTS) points.
The most significant impact of NOTS points is usually at renewal when your insurance company orders a copy of your driving record.
What Is the CA DMV NOTS System?
The California DMV’s NOTS tracks traffic violations under CA Vehicle Code (VC) Section 12810, Issuance and Renewal of Licenses.
Points are assigned as follows:
Minor infractions like an illegal U-turn or speeding and at-fault accidents: 1 point.
Serious offenses such as reckless driving: 2 points.
If you accrue 4 points in 12 months, 6 in 24 months, or 8 in 36 months, the DMV will issue an “Order of Suspension/Probation” against your license. Each point also increases insurance premiums.
Legal U-Turn Scenarios in Kings County, CA
California law allows U-turns in specific situations, including:
When there is no oncoming traffic within 200 feet.
At intersections with green lights, unless prohibited by posted signs.
Across a double yellow line when safe.
On divided highways with designated U-turn lanes and no "No U-Turn" signs.
Where no railroad tracks obstruct the U-turn.
However, violations often occur due to misunderstanding these rules or misjudging traffic conditions.
Should I Dispute an Illegal U-Turn Ticket?
Considering the loss of your 20% good driver’s discount and the rise in auto insurance premium, disputing the ticket is often worth considering.
In fact, you could save around $2,000 over three years, which seems like too much for a minor infraction. Always consult a traffic attorney.
A traffic attorney can:
Challenge the officer’s observations or evidence.
Negotiate a reduced charge that avoids NOTS points.
Protect your insurance premiums from increases.
Why Should I Hire a Traffic Attorney?
A Kings County, CA, traffic attorney has local experience to navigate Hanford Courthouse procedures effectively.
They can develop a strong defense and present evidence, such as traffic conditions or unclear signage, to argue your case.
This may lead to dismissal or reduced charges. However, there are no guarantees. Only a judge can dismiss your case.
The Financial Burden of Paying the Fine
Paying the fine outright results in the following:
Losing your “good driver discount” raises premiums by 20%.
Risk assessment surcharges of around 10-12% are added to your insurance.
Total premium increases of $600-$750 annually for up to three years.
What to Do After Receiving an Illegal U-Turn Ticket
If you’re ticketed for an illegal U-turn in Kings County, CA:
Remain calm and cooperative with the officer. Never argue about a traffic ticket roadside.
Sign the ticket but avoid admitting guilt.
Contact a traffic attorney at your earliest convenience.
A knowledgeable and experienced attorney will assess your case and guide you on whether to dispute the ticket or pursue other legal options.
Should I Use Traffic School?
Traffic school, if you are eligible, is usually your best option. However, ask a traffic attorney before pleading guilty and paying the fine.
In certain circumstances, TVS may not always be the best solution. Once pleading guilty, you must pay the full fine and complete the course by the court-ordered completion date or the conviction will be added to your DMV public driving record.
It only hides one violation every 18 months, doesn’t apply to non-moving violations, and won’t protect you from increased insurance costs or suspension if you have multiple infractions.
Conclusion
If you’ve asked yourself, “Can I dispute an illegal U-turn ticket in Hansford Courthouse in Kings County, CA?” the answer is normally yes, which can save you significant financial and legal trouble.
Consult a traffic attorney if you should fight your ticket and protect your driving record.
Ask Bigger & Harman, Can I Dispute an Illegal U-Turn Ticket in Hanford Courthouse in Kings County, CA
For the answer to the question can I dispute an illegal U-turn ticket in Hanford Courthouse in Kings County, call Bigger & Harman, APC, at (661) 349-9300, or Se habla Español 349-9755.
Alternatively, use our handy online contact form or email attorney@biggerharmanlaw.com.
References:
Average cost of car insurance in CA for 2025—Bankrate.com.
CA VC Section 12810, Issuance and Renewal of Licenses & Section 22102, Turning and Stopping and Turning Signals.
The CA Driver Handbook English y Español.
https://www.bakersfieldtraffictickets.com/ca-point-system/.