Why It’s Worth It to Fight a Traffic Violation
We're here to tell you that when it comes to fighting a traffic ticket, it's definitely worth your time. You may think it's simpler to just pay the fine and move on, but let's delve a little deeper into the long-term consequences of too many infractions.
Accumulating traffic violations can have severe repercussions on your driving record and insurance rates. Most states, including Florida, use a point system to track traffic violations. Each infraction adds points to your record, and if you accumulate too many within a specific timeframe, you could face serious penalties.
Let's take Florida as an example. If you rack up 12 points within one year, you're looking at a 30-day suspension. Worse yet, if you accumulate 24 points within 36 months, you could be facing a one-year suspension. This situation could disrupt your life.
Common Traffic Violations and Possible Defense Strategies Against Them
Now, let's talk about some common traffic violations we see here in Florida. These can range from speeding and driving without insurance to failing to obey traffic signals, reckless driving, and even driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Each of these violations carries its own set of penalties and consequences, which can be quite severe.
There are numerous defense strategies that we can employ to fight these charges.
Let's say you've been ticketed for speeding. Your defense lawyer could challenge the accuracy of the speed measurement device or argue that the speed limit wasn't clearly posted. If you've been cited for driving without insurance, we could look into whether you had valid insurance coverage at the time of the incident.
For violations like failing to obey traffic signals, your attorney can examine the circumstances surrounding the incident and identify any mitigating factors that could help reduce the charges.
In cases of driving under the influence, you might challenge the validity of the breathalyzer test or question the legality of the traffic stop. For example, if we can prove the officer didn't have probable cause to pull you over in the first place, any evidence obtained after the stop could be thrown out.
Your best defense will be crafted according to the unique circumstances of your case. You may think your innocence is obvious, or that you'll be fine with representing yourself. But the reality is, without a strong defense, you could end up paying hefty fines and enduring harsh penalties. Also, if this isn't your first traffic offense, the court won't be easily convinced to dismiss your ticket. So don't challenge a violation without a trusted defense attorney's help.
The High Stakes of Traffic Violations in Florida
While it might seem like a minor annoyance to get a traffic ticket, we can assure you, the consequences are anything but minor. In our home state of Florida, every traffic violation carries its own set of penalties and repercussions. These aren't just limited to fines — they can impact your insurance rates, add points to your driver's license, and in some cases, even result in jail time.
Take speeding, for instance. It's not just about paying a fine. You might also see an increase in your insurance rates and points added to your license. Similarly, driving without insurance, failing to obey traffic signals, or failing to yield the right of way can lead to fines, increased insurance rates, and points on your license.
Now, imagine you're caught making an improper lane change or attempting to elude law enforcement. Not only are you looking at fines, increased insurance rates, and points on your license, but you might also face possible jail time.
The stakes get even higher if you're charged with leaving the scene of an accident, driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs (DUI/DWI), or driving on a suspended or revoked license. In addition to fines, increased insurance rates, and points on your license, these violations could result in jail time and license suspension.
If you lose your license, think about how that will affect your ability to work, care for your family, or even just run errands. These repercussions speak to why it's worth it to fight a traffic violation in Florida; not only can it lead to you avoiding costly fines and penalties, but it can also help keep your record clean and protect your freedom to drive.
Enlist Steadfast Legal Support
At Archer Law, we understand that nobody's perfect. Mistakes happen. But when they do, it's important to have someone on your side who can help you navigate the legal system. We're here for you. We'll work tirelessly to achieve the best possible outcome for your case. So, if you're facing a traffic violation, don't just accept it. Contact us today to learn how our traffic attorney can help preserve your driving privileges and keep your insurance rates manageable.