Traffic tickets often seem like an irritation rather than a major issue. People pulled over by police officers often feel frustrated about the delay in reaching their destination during a traffic stop. They may resent the financial obligations that come with a citation.
Despite the negative emotions associated with a ticket, many drivers are quick to pay their citations instead of trying to defend themselves. Technically, anyone accused of breaking the law has the right to defend against the allegations they face. A traffic ticket is an allegation of a violation of traffic statutes.
Those who plead guilty to traffic violations face penalties beyond just the fine imposed. They can also lose their driving privileges if they receive too many traffic tickets in a short period of time. Is a driver’s license suspension for traffic tickets a minor inconvenience or a major headache?
The loss of a driver’s license can prove costly
Even a temporary driver’s license suspension can cost a motorist thousands of dollars. They may rely on rideshare services or similar on-demand transportation systems to get to work and manage their personal affairs. The cost of paid private transportation is often far higher than the cost of maintaining a vehicle.
Additionally, the loss of independent transportation could put a professional at risk of losing their job, especially if they repeatedly miss work or show up late for their shifts. Relying on public transportation can result in write-ups and job penalties.
The more times the driver has received citations, the greater the potential of a lengthy driver’s license suspension. The first time that the North Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) suspends a motorist’s license due to repeated citations, they lose their driving privileges for 60 days. A second suspension for excessive license points lasts for six months. A third or subsequent license suspension may last a full year.
Fighting traffic tickets is one of the only ways to avoid a license suspension related to a citation. Motorists can avoid the points added to their licenses in addition to avoiding the fines assessed if they successfully defend against a traffic ticket.
Discussing a recent citation and any other tickets from within the last few years with a skilled legal team can help drivers understand the risks that they’re facing. Motorists who fight their traffic tickets can protect their driving privileges, reputations and careers from costly and embarrassing setbacks.