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Should I Fight My Speeding Ticket In North Carolina?

A speeding ticket is the most common reason for you to be stopped by law enforcement in North Carolina. This is always a stressful and frustrating experience. If you are stopped by law enforcement for speeding, it is important to remain calm and polite with the officer as he or she will make notes about the stop that can either or help or hurt you in court.

It is almost always advisable to fight or otherwise contest your speeding ticket in court. Speeding tickets less than 15 mph over the speed limit are generally charged as infractions; this means that they can simply be paid online. This is deceiving because the ticket appears to be offering an easy solution, but if the ticket is just paid off, you will, almost always, be subject to license and insurance points.

Misdemeanor Ticket Charges

Most tickets more than 15mph over the speed limit are charged as misdemeanors. These speeding tickets, if you are convicted, can result in license and insurance points, revocation of your driver’s license, and probation or even jail time if you charge with a high-speed offense.

If you are stopped for speeding more than 25mph over the speed limit, it is likely that you will also be charged with reckless driving, a class 2 misdemeanor which can also result in probation and four insurance points.

North Carolina Speeding Ticket FAQs

Traffic violations such as speeding tickets can often leave you with questions about what comes next. While it may be expected to simply pay the fine, there are times when it makes sense to contest your speeding ticket. Here are some of the answers to questions we frequently receive about speeding tickets.

Should I just pay the speeding ticket?

While paying a speeding ticket is an option, it’s important to consider the potential consequences. Paying the ticket is an admission of guilt and can result in points on your driving record. These points can lead to higher insurance premiums and even license suspension if you accumulate too many. It’s advisable to evaluate your situation and explore other options before deciding.

Should I contest my speeding ticket?

Contesting a speeding ticket can be wise if you believe you have a valid defense. In North Carolina, you have the right to challenge the ticket in court. To support your case, you can gather evidence, such as witness statements, photographs or technical discrepancies in speed measurement devices. Contesting the ticket might lead to reduced fines, dismissed charges or a clean driving record.

Do I need a traffic ticket lawyer, or can I handle this on my own?

While you have the option to handle the case on your own, hiring a traffic ticket lawyer can provide several advantages. Lawyers are familiar with the legal process and can leverage their expertise to build a strong defense. They can negotiate with prosecutors, identify potential flaws in the case, and maximize your chances of a favorable outcome, potentially saving you money in the long run.

What happens if I ignore my speeding ticket?

Ignoring a speeding ticket in North Carolina can lead to serious consequences. The court may issue a Failure to Appear (FTA) charge, resulting in increased fines, a potential driver’s license suspension and even a warrant for your arrest. It’s crucial to address the ticket promptly by either paying it, contesting it or seeking legal assistance.

What if I lost my speeding ticket?

If you’ve lost your speeding ticket, you should contact the issuing authority or the local court as soon as possible. They can provide you with information about your case, including the fine amount, due date and options for contesting the ticket. Ignoring the lost ticket can lead to additional penalties, so taking action promptly is essential.

When does speeding become considered reckless driving in North Carolina?

In North Carolina, driving 15 mph or more over the speed limit or over 80 mph, regardless of the speed limit, is considered reckless driving. Reckless driving is a more serious offense than a simple speeding ticket and can result in harsher penalties, including fines, license suspension, and even jail time.

Do I have to go to court to fight a speeding ticket?

While some cases can be resolved without a court appearance, more complex cases might require you to go to court to contest a speeding ticket. It’s recommended to consult with a traffic ticket lawyer to determine the best approach for your specific situation. An experienced lawyer can guide you on whether a court appearance is necessary and help you prepare for it.

What are the consequences of getting multiple speeding tickets in North Carolina?

Accumulating multiple speeding tickets in North Carolina can increase your driving record points. These points can result in higher insurance premiums and potential license suspension if you get too many within a specific period. It’s essential to address each ticket individually and consider contesting them to minimize the impact on your driving record and finances.

It is almost always advisable to fight a speeding ticket, and an experienced Raleigh traffic ticket lawyer can assist you. An experienced traffic ticket attorney is invaluable and can save you thousands of dollars of insurance premiums if you have been charged with a speeding ticket. Give Jeremy a call if you have received a speeding ticket, and he will be able to assist you if you have a ticket in Raleigh, Smithfield, Lillington or anywhere in central North Carolina. He will discuss the possibilities of having your charge reduced to a non-moving violation, using a Prayer for Judgment Continued (PJC), or dismissed entirely.

Talk To An Attorney About Speeding Ticket Defense Today

Cotten Law Firm, PLLC is an aggressive and affordable criminal defense firm that will provide you with aggressive representation on your speeding ticket. Our firm has represented over 20,000 clients charged with offenses such as yours and has hundreds of reviews from satisfied clients.

Give our office a call or visit our website to chat live with an assistant 24 hours a day. From our offices in Raleigh and Fuquay-Varina, we serve clients in central North Carolina including Wake, Johnston, Harnett, Orange, Sampson, Lee, and Chatham Counties. Give our office a call at 984-600-3090 or fill out our online form to make an appointment for a free consultation.