If you get a traffic ticket, paying it may seem like the simplest way to resolve the situation. However, doing so essentially means you’re pleading guilty, so the offense will go on your record. It also means you’ll pay the maximum possible fine. As such, fighting the infraction may actually be a better strategy for both the short and long term. Here are just a few of the biggest reasons to challenge any traffic tickets you receive.

3 Reasons to Fight a Traffic Ticket

1. To Preserve Your Record

Paying a traffic ticket will affect your driving record. Not only will this lead to higher insurance premiums, but it will also yield more severe penalties should you face any subsequent infractions because you’ll be a repeat offender. Additionally, even a minor offense could result in a license suspension because North Carolina has a cumulative driver license points system.

2. To Protect Your Reputation

If you didn't actually commit the violation in question, fighting the ticket will protect your reputation. Since you may be unsure how to prove your innocence, though, it’s wise to consult an attorney if you’re not guilty. A resourceful lawyer will conduct a thorough investigation to determine what really happened and ultimately gather evidence of your innocence.

3. To Lead by Example

If you have teens—or you will soon—maintaining a clean record will ensure you can lead by example when it comes time to teach them to drive. You can be sure your kids will ask if you’ve ever gotten a ticket, and explaining why you did and how you fought it will serve as a lesson in following both the rules of the road and the letter of the law.

If you want to fight a traffic ticket in North Carolina, turn to Moore Law Trial Lawyers. Located in Rocky Mount, this firm is led by Thomas Moore, who has more than two decades of experience in the legal field. Over the course of his career, Attorney Moore has focused on criminal law and traffic ticket defense. To explore all his services, visit his website. To schedule your initial consultation, call (252) 443-2468.