After receiving a traffic citation, most drivers may assume there’s no way to challenge the ticket, and they decide simply to pay the fine. However, in the long-term, even simple speeding tickets can drive up insurance rates and increase the penalties for future infractions. Fortunately, there are a variety of traffic ticket defenses available to drivers accused of violations, especially if the citation was issued in error.

4 Tips for Defending Yourself Against Traffic Tickets

1. Appear in Court

Many jurisdictions give defendants the option of paying their ticket in advance, eliminating the necessity of going to court. However, this appears as a conviction on your criminal record and means surrendering the opportunity to defend yourself. If you plan to contest your traffic ticket, you’ll have to appear in court on the scheduled date.

2. Collect Evidence Immediately

At your initial traffic stop, the police officers will likely write a perfunctory report explaining the circumstances of the alleged violation. An effective defense is built on having evidence of your own, so take pictures of everything, from the traffic to the signals, lights, and road signs.

3. Understand the Statutes

Before deciding whether to contest the charge, look up the specific language of the offense you’re accused of. Police officers sometimes use considerable discretion when applying traffic law, leading to highly subjective interpretations of the law.

4. Hire a Traffic Ticket Defense Attorney

Even if you believe you could argue the case on your own, it’s always in your best interest to consult an experienced lawyer before deciding how to proceed. Traffic ticket defense attorneys understand both the legal system and the defenses available and will know how to achieve the best possible outcome based on the specifics of your case.

If you’ve been accused of a traffic violation, the traffic ticket defense team at the Bates Law Firm PLLC will provide the attentive legal services you deserve. Over the years, they’ve handled thousands of traffic tickets for clients throughout North Carolina’s Anson, Richmond, Stanly, and Union Counties, working diligently in every case to achieve justice. Visit their website to learn more about their traffic ticket defense services, or call (704) 694-0195 to schedule a consultation.