If you are ever ticketed for a traffic violation, the police officer will often explain that you can appear in court and plead guilty or not guilty.
While it may seem easier to plead guilty and pay your fine, there are several reasons why you may want to contest your ticket.
The consequences of a traffic ticket
Even driving 5 miles per hour over the speed limit in North Carolina can result in a fine, plus court costs. Speeding in a school or work zone will cost you $250.
In addition to fines and court fees, North Carolina drivers may see increases in their insurance premiums after certain violations, such as speeding, failing to stop at a stoplight, not wearing a seat belt or following too closely.
There are several benefits to pleading not guilty:
In North Carolina, every traffic violation adds points to your driving record. Even minor violations can stay on your record for years, and accumulating 12 or more points in a three-year period can result in your license being suspended. Pleading not guilty gives you a chance to avoid these points altogether.
You may also have the opportunity to negotiate for a lesser charge. Instead of receiving the hefty fine and five points accompanying a conviction of aggressive driving, you may be able to work out a deal for a lesser offense such as following too closely. This could also prevent an increase in your insurance premiums, potentially saving thousands of dollars.
Successfully fighting your traffic ticket requires a strong defense. You need someone who understands North Carolina’s traffic courts for your best possible outcome. They can help you craft a strong case and negotiate on your behalf. They may even be able to get your ticket dismissed.
FAQs
Q: What happens if I plead guilty to my traffic ticket in North Carolina?
A: Pleading guilty typically means you pay the associated fine and court costs. However, it also results in points being added to your driving record, which can increase your insurance premiums and potentially lead to license suspension if you accumulate too many points.
Q: Will my insurance rates go up if I plead guilty to a traffic violation?
A: Yes, many traffic violations—such as speeding, running a red light, or not wearing a seat belt—can cause your insurance rates to increase significantly if you plead guilty.
Q: Can I fight my traffic ticket instead of pleading guilty?
A: Absolutely. You have the right to plead not guilty and contest your ticket in court. This may help you avoid fines, points on your license, and increased insurance costs.
Q: What are the benefits of pleading not guilty to a traffic ticket?
A: By pleading not guilty, you may be able to:
- Avoid points on your driving record
- Negotiate for a lesser charge with reduced penalties
- Prevent increases in your insurance premiums
- Potentially get your ticket dismissed
Q: What are “points” on my North Carolina driving record, and why do they matter?
A: Points are penalties added to your driving record for traffic violations. Accumulating 12 or more points within three years can lead to license suspension. Points also remain on your record for years and can impact your insurance rates.
Q: Can a lawyer help me with my traffic ticket?
A: Yes. An experienced traffic attorney can build a strong defense, negotiate with the prosecutor for a reduced charge, and may even be able to get your ticket dismissed.
Q: Is it possible to have my charge reduced if I plead not guilty?
A: Often, yes. Negotiating for a lesser offense—such as reducing an aggressive driving charge to following too closely—can result in fewer points and lower fines.
Q: What are the potential consequences of simply paying my ticket online and not contesting it
A: Paying your ticket is considered an admission of guilt. This results in fines, points on your record, and likely higher insurance premiums.