If you have ever been pulled over for speeding, you know just how stressful the experience can be. It’s not only the traffic fine that you have to worry about, but the potential long-term impact on your driving record and insurance rates as well. The good news is that there are legal options for drivers who have been cited for speeding, and the best way to navigate the legal process is to hire a traffic attorney.
Traffic attorneys specialize in helping clients who have been cited for traffic violations. These attorneys possess the knowledge and experience to give you the best chance at successfully fighting a speeding ticket. They can help reduce the severity of the charge and minimize the financial impact of a speeding ticket. A traffic attorney will lead you through navigating the legal system and ensure that your rights are protected.
Here are some reasons why you should consider hiring a traffic attorney in the event of a speeding ticket:
Expertise and experience
Most traffic attorneys have years of experience in handling traffic cases. They have an in-depth knowledge of traffic laws and can spot any errors or inconsistencies that may have been made by the arresting officer. In addition, they have a working relationship with judges, prosecutors, and other court officials that can help them negotiate a more favorable outcome for your case.
Defense strategies
A traffic attorney will have a thorough understanding of the various defenses available to a speeding ticket case. They can determine whether there are any procedural errors or technicalities that could invalidate the ticket. They can also decide whether to defend your case at trial or negotiate a plea deal that could minimize the fines and points that will be assessed against your license.
Record keeping
Traffic attorneys have a thorough understanding of how a speeding ticket conviction could impact your driving record and insurance premiums. They can advise you on ways to minimize the damage and even recommend defensive driving courses that could help reduce the number of points on your record.
Saves time and money
With a traffic attorney representing you, you do not have to take time off from your job or family responsibilities to attend court hearings. They will represent you in court, saving you both time and money. Additionally, they can secure financially sound plea deals which can save you money up front and down the line in the form of reduced insurance premiums.
Stress reduction
When facing a speeding ticket, drivers are often overwhelmed by the stress and uncertainty of how to respond. Hiring a traffic attorney can alleviate some of those worries and provide peace of mind. They will work tirelessly to resolve your case and provide reassurances that they are in your corner.
If you have received a non-criminal traffic ticket, it’s important to understand your legal rights and options. Here is a list of questions to ask a lawyer to gain clarity and better insight into your situation:
- What type of ticket did I receive? Understand the specific type of ticket you received, such as a speeding ticket, red light violation, or failure to yield.
- What are the possible consequences of this ticket? Ask about the consequences of the ticket, such as fines, points against your license, traffic school requirements or license suspension.
- What are the penalties if I ignore this ticket? If you ignore the ticket, more serious penalties may result, including suspension of your driver’s license, increased fines or even an arrest warrant.
- How much will the fines and additional expenses cost? Ask your attorney to give you an estimate of all potential costs, including fines and court fees. They can also help you understand how your insurance rates can be affected by the ticket.
- Can I fight this ticket? Discuss the potential defenses you can use to fight the ticket, including challenging the accuracy of the citation, the circumstances of the offense or how the officer gathered evidence.
- What are the potential benefits of fighting the ticket? Fighting the ticket can result in a reduction or dismissal of the citation, reduced fines or points on your driving record.
- What are the chances of getting the ticket reduced or even dismissed? Help the lawyer understand the circumstances such as mitigating factors or unusual conditions that might be in your favor. This will help determine how likely it is that the ticket can be reduced or even dismissed.
- Can I handle this without the help of a lawyer? Depending on the circumstances, you may be able to handle the case on your own without a lawyer. Your attorney can help you understand the complexity of your case and the potential costs, so you can make an informed decision.
Asking these questions can help you gain a better understanding of your situation and identify available options to address the traffic ticket. Working with a lawyer can help you build the best possible defense and reduce the impact of the ticket on your driving record and insurance premiums.
To avoid getting a traffic ticket or committing a traffic violation in Massachusetts, here are some strategies you can use:
- Know the rules of the road: Make sure you know the driving laws in Massachusetts and always follow them.
- Stay within the speed limit: Always drive at or below the speed limit to avoid getting a speeding ticket.
- Keep a safe following distance: Maintain ample space between your vehicle and the car in front of you to avoid rear-end accidents or following too closely.
- Stay alert while behind the wheel: Avoid distracted driving, such as texting or using your cell phone.
- Always wear a seatbelt: Buckle up before driving and require any passengers to do the same.
- Avoid drinking and driving: Never drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs, as DUI convictions can be among the most serious offenses.
- Avoid Texting and Driving: Texting while driving distracts you and makes it more likely that you are driving faster than you realize and you are more likely to drive over the speed limit than if you were not texting. It is also against the law in Massachusetts. The texting law in Massachusetts bans “sending, typing or reading electronic messages to or from handheld devices while operating a motor vehicle.”
- Seek legal advice: Consulting an attorney who specializes in traffic violations can help you understand your rights and legal options if you find yourself facing a traffic ticket or criminal traffic violation.
It’s important to understand the different types of traffic offenses and their potential consequences to avoid getting a traffic ticket or committing a traffic violation in Massachusetts. By adopting safe driving habits and seeking the advice of a professional attorney if you need it, you can help protect yourself and others on the road.
Obtaining a speeding ticket can be a frustrating experience that can have a long term impact on your driving record and insurance premiums. While hiring a traffic attorney may seem like an expensive venture upfront, the benefits far outweigh the costs. A traffic attorney will help reduce fines, avoid points against your license, protect your driving record and get you back on the road quickly.
If you or someone you know has received a speeding citation, contact Cutler Law Boston. We have experienced traffic attorneys, ready to offer a free consultation regarding your case. We understand the anxieties that come with a speeding ticket, so we will explain the legal process and answer all of your questions with the aim of providing you with effective legal representation that will get the best result for you.