What to Do After Receiving a Traffic Ticket in Raleigh
Receiving a traffic ticket in Raleigh can be stressful, whether it’s for speeding, running a red light, or another violation. But how you respond to it can make a significant difference in terms of fines, points on your license, and even your insurance rates. Attorney Omar Bashi from Bashi Law Group offers expert advice on what steps to take to minimize the impact of a traffic ticket.
1. Don’t Ignore the Ticket
The worst thing you can do after receiving a traffic ticket is to ignore it. Failing to respond can result in:
Increased fines due to late penalties.
License suspension if the court reports your failure to appear.
A warrant for your arrest in severe cases of non-compliance.
To avoid these consequences, make sure to check the deadline to respond listed on your ticket and address it promptly.
2. Decide Whether to Pay or Contest the Ticket
After receiving a ticket, you have two primary options:
Pay the Fine
If you decide to pay the ticket:
You are essentially admitting guilt, which may result in points on your driving record.
These points can lead to higher insurance premiums.
Some minor offenses allow you to pay online, but it’s crucial to understand the long-term impact before doing so.
Contest the Ticket in Court
If you believe the ticket was issued unfairly or there are mitigating circumstances:
Consider fighting the ticket in traffic court.
You’ll have the opportunity to present your case to a judge, which may result in reduced penalties or even a dismissal.
This option is especially important if the violation carries significant points or could lead to license suspension.
3. Consider Traffic School
In some cases, attending a traffic school course can help:
Reduce or eliminate points from your driving record.
Lower your fine depending on the court’s discretion.
Keep your insurance rates from increasing.
Eligibility for traffic school varies based on the violation and your driving history. Consulting with an attorney can help you determine if this option is available to you.
4. Consult an Experienced Traffic Attorney
Navigating traffic court can be challenging, especially if you’re unfamiliar with legal procedures. That’s where an experienced attorney like Omar Bashi comes in:
Case Evaluation: He can assess the specifics of your ticket and determine the best course of action.
Legal Strategy: Attorney Bashi will identify potential defenses, such as questioning the accuracy of speed detection devices or procedural errors made by the officer.
Court Representation: Having a lawyer represent you can increase your chances of a favorable outcome, such as reduced fines, dismissal, or no points added to your record.
Hiring a traffic attorney is particularly important if:
You have multiple tickets or a history of violations.
The ticket could result in license suspension.
You’re facing serious charges like reckless driving or DUI.
5. Prepare for Your Court Appearance
If you choose to contest your ticket, preparation is key:
Gather Evidence: This may include photos of the scene, witness statements, or dashcam footage.
Review the Law: Understand the specific statute you’re accused of violating.
Stay Professional: Dress appropriately, be respectful to the judge, and present your case clearly.
Attorney Omar Bashi can help you prepare for court by coaching you on what to expect, reviewing your case, and ensuring you have the strongest possible defense.
Handling a traffic ticket properly can significantly reduce its impact on your driving record, insurance rates, and wallet. If you’re unsure of your next steps, don’t hesitate to reach out to Attorney Omar Bashi at Bashi Law Group for expert legal advice and representation.
