3 Ways To Deal With A Speeding Ticket
Being issued a speeding ticket is not the worse thing that can happen to you. After all, with most speeding tickets, you just have to pay a small fine. However, it's the long-term cost of a speeding ticket that is really damaging.
A speeding ticket is reported to your insurance company and stays on your driving report for years, which can impact your insurance rates and even your ability to obtain any job that requires you to drive. That is why you should always work to fight to get your ticket reduced or dismissed when you get a speeding ticket. The fine may be small, but the implications can be long-term.
Way #1: Ask to See the Radar When Pulled Over
The first step to beating your ticket occurs when you are pulled over. When you are pulled over, as long as it is not too cold outside, turn off your vehicle and turn on the interior light. Speak politely to the officer.
Once they get your information, ask to see the radar they used to target your speed. In many states, the officer is required to let you see the radar if you ask. If the officer will not show you the radar, just remember that information for your court date. Don't make a fuss —leave the scene in a positive manner.
Way #2: Ask to Meet With the Officer
After you get the ticket, follow up in a few days and ask to meet with the officer. When you meet with the officer, provide a personal story and ask the officer for mercy. If the officer feels that they identify with you, they have the authority to drop your ticket before your case even goes to court.
If the officer will not meet with you or you are not comfortable meeting with the officer in person, you can always try and write a letter, pleading your case. The offer may choose to dismiss the ticket when they see how much you care about this ticket and your driving record.
Way #3: Call the Prosecuting Attorney
Next, you can try the attorney who will be prosecuting your case. Call and see if you can set up an appointment before your court case date. When you meet with them, make your case, but don't be a pest.
Be sincere, and see if they will dismiss your case or drop the ticket down to a lesser offense that will not stay on your driving record. Oftentimes, if you have a good driving record, the prosecuting attorney might be more than willing to let you complete traffic school or just pay a fine and drop your ticket.
If you need help getting out of a speeding ticket, contact an attorney who specifically works with speeding tickets. The attorney can help you try to get the ticket dismissed before you go to court and can help you fight the ticket in court if necessary as well. It is worth it to pay an attorney to assist you so you can avoid the long-term consequences of having a speeding ticket on your record.
To learn more, contact a speeding ticket attorney.