Chances are that if you have a driver’s license, you have probably been pulled over once or twice. Whether or not you received a traffic ticket and the fines associated, however, will often vary. Traffic tickets in New Jersey can lead to court fees and points on your driver’s license. This could lead to an increase in insurance rates.
Understanding what happens when you get a traffic ticket in New Jersey and what options you have can be helpful.
Common Types of Traffic Tickets in New Jersey
These are just a few of the most common types of traffic tickets that you might receive in New Jersey:
- Speeding
- Failure to yield
- Blocking traffic
- Failing to stop at a traffic light
- Failing to stop at a stop sign
- Disobeying turn laws
- Illegal U-turn
- Reckless driving
- Passing in a no-passing zone
These common traffic violations carry varying degrees of points, as well as financial surcharges.
Your Options Following a Traffic Ticket
When you receive a traffic ticket, you have a few options available:
- Pay the ticket: When you pay the ticket, you accept the charges and the associated fines. Depending on the violation, you may also receive points on your license.
- Attend traffic school: Some courts may give you the option to attend traffic school to refresh your knowledge of the local driving laws.
- Contest the ticket: If you do not agree with the charges, you have the option to contest the ticket.
- Hire an attorney: If you decide to contest the ticket, or you are not sure what the best option is, it may be beneficial to hire an attorney.
While paying the ticket is often the easiest, and fastest, solution, this also means that you will pay the highest fines. Depending on your driving record, you could also have an increase in insurance rates. Contesting a ticket does take time and investigation, but with the right lawyer, it could save you money.
Also, too many points on your license can lead to your license being suspended in New Jersey. If you believe that your driver’s license is at risk, then it is important to reach out to a traffic violation lawyer as soon as possible.
What to Expect When Contesting a Traffic Violation
Once you decide to contest your traffic violation, you can expect one of two solutions. It is possible that the officer will be too busy to show up to court, which could result in your case being thrown out. Otherwise, the judge will listen to your explanation while considering the charges and determine the best solution.
In most cases, this will minimally lead to a reduction in charges, which also often means fewer fines and points. When you have a lawyer representing you, you have the advantage of knowing what to argue for your case. Your lawyer will have experience in negotiation, working closely with the prosecutor in an attempt to get your charges dropped.
Contact a Mount Laurel Traffic Violation Lawyer to Discuss Your Case in New Jersey
Did you receive a traffic violation and now you are at risk of losing your license? Don’t sit around and wait to see how much you will owe and whether you are required to take driving lessons. The skilled attorneys at the Law Office of Stephen R. Piper, LLC represent clients with traffic violations in Mount Laurel, Willingboro, Burlington Township, Maple Shade, and throughout New Jersey. Call 856-333-3586 or fill out our online contact form to schedule a free consultation about your case.
The articles on this blog are for informative purposes only and are no substitute for legal advice or an attorney-client relationship. If you are seeking legal advice, please contact our law firm directly.