Before admitting guilt and paying a speeding ticket, or any traffic infraction for that matter, in Florida, it’s crucial to explore your options and understand their potential impacts. This article outlines three possible courses of action, each with specific benefits and drawbacks.
Option 1: Pay the Ticket
Paying the ticket is the simplest choice. It involves no court appearances, and you can quickly move on with your life. However, the consequences include:
- Accumulation of Points: These points remain on your driving record for several years. Accumulating too many can lead to a suspension of your license.
- Increased Insurance Rates: Each ticket can raise your insurance premiums by up to 25%.
Option 2: Attend Traffic School
Taking a 4-hour Basic Driver Improvement Course within 30 days of receiving your ticket can prevent points from being added to your driving record and keep insurance rates from rising.
Limitations:
- You can only take this course once every 12 months, with a limit of five times per lifetime.
Benefits:
- Maintains a clean record.
- Requires only a minimal time investment.
Drawbacks:
- Not feasible for those who cannot spare time for the course.
Option 3: Contest the Ticket
If you believe the ticket was issued in error, you can choose to fight it in court by pleading not guilty within 30 days of the citation.
Procedure:
- A judge will hear both your side and the officer’s at traffic court.
If you win:
- No fines, no points, no impact on your record.
If you lose:
- You will incur points, court fees, and possibly a requirement to take a defensive driving course that could be longer than the basic improvement course.
Risks:
- Contesting a ticket involves potential court costs and time commitments, especially if the defense driving course is required.
Advantages:
- Worth considering if you genuinely believe the ticket was unjustly issued, particularly if you have already maxed out your eligibility for traffic school.
Before making a decision, weigh these options carefully against the potential costs in time and money. Each choice offers a different balance of risks and rewards, tailored to individual circumstances and priorities.
This post was written by a professional at Ticket Shield. Ticket Shield understands that life can sometimes throw unexpected challenges your way. That’s why Ticket Shield is here to help you navigate through legal roadblocks when you need it most. Their team of experienced lawyers specializes in a range of traffic-related legal matters, including traffic criminal matters, ensuring you have the best defense possible.
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Don’t let traffic tickets or driving-related charges weigh you down. Contact our Careless Driving Lawyer in Broward County today for a free consultation, and let Ticket Shield be your shield in the legal arena. Your peace of mind is their priority!
