Aggressive Defense For Stop Sign And Stop Light Tickets In North Carolina

Getting convicted of running a red light or stop sign is a moving violation that will result in license points but, more importantly, an increase in your insurance rates over the next three years. If you are assessed 12 license points within a three-year period, you will probably face a license suspension. In most traffic ticket cases, the prosecutor only needs to prove that you committed the violation, not that you knew about it or that it was intentional; there is no mental state requirement for most traffic tickets.

If you are convicted of running a stop sign or red light, you will be assessed three points. As mentioned above, if you receive 12 points during a three-year period, you face the risk of a license revocation. Sometimes, running a stop sign or red light can also lead to a charge of reckless driving which is four points.

Don’t Fight A Ticket Alone

If you have been ticketed for running a stop sign or stop light, our attorney at Cotten Law Firm, PLLC in Fuquay-Varina and Raleigh, may be able to help you defend yourself in court. There are a number of defenses that may be available to you, including:

• The officer did not have a clear view of your vehicle. If the officer did not have a clear view of your vehicle, they may not have been able to see that you did not stop at the stop sign or stop light.
• There was an emergency. If you were running a stop sign or stop light to avoid an emergency, such as an accident or a pedestrian, you may be able to use this as a defense.
• The stop sign or stop light was obstructed. If the stop sign or stop light was obstructed, you may not have been able to see it clearly.
• You were confused about the traffic laws. If you were confused about the traffic laws, you may not have realized that you were running a stop sign or stop light.

If you have been ticketed for running a stop sign or stop light, it is important to speak with an experienced traffic ticket lawyer. A lawyer can help you understand your rights and options, and they can represent you in court.

Answers To Frequently Asked Questions

While it may seem minor, a conviction for running a stop sign or a red light can have serious consequences. We are here to answer your questions and review your case. In the meantime, please see some answers to frequently asked questions.

What are the potential consequences for running a stop sign or stop light in North Carolina?

In North Carolina, you could face a fine of up to $100 and three points each on your driving and insurance records. Points on your insurance record may result in an increase in your insurance rates, and receiving 12 or more points on your driving record can lead to a license suspension.

How can a driver contest a stop sign or stop light violation?

To contest a stop sign or stop light violation in North Carolina, you must appear in court and plead not guilty. At your scheduled trial, our attorney can present a strong defense on your behalf.

How do traffic cameras come into play in detecting stop sign violations?

North Carolina law permits the use of traffic cameras to catch red light violations with proper signage. A red light camera ticket is then mailed to the owner of the vehicle.

How does running a stop sign compare to other traffic violations in terms of penalties and consequences?

Compared to some other offenses, running a stop sign is a relatively minor violation in North Carolina. While you will not face jail time or thousands of dollars in fines, you will receive points on your insurance and driving records. When you reach 12 points on your driving record, your license faces suspension.

Get Skilled Support Today

There may be ways a Raleigh traffic ticket lawyer can help you to dispute a traffic ticket. An experienced traffic ticket attorney is invaluable and can determine how to positively resolve your case. Our attorney will discuss the possibilities of having your charge reduced to a nonmoving violation, using a Prayer for Judgment Continued (PJC), or dismissed entirely.

Cotten Law Firm is an aggressive and affordable defense firm. Our attorney will provide you with skilled representation if you have been charged with running a stop sign or red light. 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 at 984-600-3090 or fill out our online form to make an appointment for a free consultation in central North Carolina.