When you receive a speeding ticket, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. Many drivers make mistakes in the aftermath that can cause more harm than good. At Arthur L. Pressman, Attorney at Law, we understand that navigating traffic violations can be tricky. This guide will walk you through the most common errors drivers make after getting a speeding ticket and provide useful strategies to avoid them.
Arthur Pressman focuses in the areas of DWI, traffic law and criminal defense.
Mistake #1: Ignoring the Ticket 
When you get a speeding ticket, your first instinct may be to ignore it. Whether it’s out of frustration or simply hoping the issue will disappear on its own, this is one of the most costly mistakes you can make. Ignoring the ticket can result in higher fines, a suspended license, and even a bench warrant for your arrest. In many cases, drivers who fail to respond promptly will face additional consequences, making it more difficult to resolve the situation later on.
How to Avoid It:
The best approach is always to deal with the ticket as soon as possible. Every ticket you receive will come with instructions on how to respond. Whether you choose to pay the fine, contest the ticket, or request a court hearing, it’s crucial to meet the deadline. If you decide to contest the ticket or need legal advice, it’s a good idea to consult with a lawyer who specializes in traffic law. The experienced team at Arthur L. Pressman, Attorney at Law can help you navigate the complexities of contesting a ticket, ensuring the best possible outcome.
Highly recommended Arthur pressman. I don’t live in Buffalo New York but while visiting my family there from Florida. I got pulled over while driving on a, suspended license in Florida. They arrested me and gave me a court date to appear in court and due to me living out of state I just could not afford to go back and forth to buffalo from Florida so that’s when I hired Arthur Pressman. He made sure to handle everything for me and kept me informed with what was going on. I received no points no penalties and the case was dropped. Thank you Arthur pressman your the best. Would definitely recommend you to family and friends. Crystal B.
Mistake #2: Not Contesting the Ticket When You Should
It’s common for drivers to simply pay the fine because they think it’s the easiest way out. Unfortunately, doing so is an admission of guilt. Paying the fine will result in points being added to your driving record, which can lead to increased insurance premiums and potentially more severe penalties in the future. In some cases, simply paying the fine may not be the most cost-effective option, especially if you have a clean driving record and are eligible to contest the ticket.
How to Avoid It:
If you believe you were unfairly ticketed, you should consider contesting the speeding ticket. Many drivers are unaware that they can have their ticket dismissed or reduced by attending a court hearing. It’s also possible to negotiate for a lesser penalty or even a reduced fine. A qualified attorney can help you navigate the legal process and provide expert advice on how to approach your case. In some cases, you may even be able to have the violation removed from your record, preventing an increase in your insurance rates.
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Mistake #3: Failing to Hire an Experienced Lawyer
When drivers receive a speeding ticket, they often think hiring a lawyer is unnecessary. However, the reality is that an experienced traffic lawyer can be incredibly beneficial. Many drivers don’t fully understand the legal process surrounding speeding tickets and may unknowingly make decisions that hurt their case. Without a lawyer, you may not be aware of potential defenses or strategies that could lead to a reduction in penalties.
How to Avoid It:
If you’re unsure of how to proceed after receiving a speeding ticket, consider hiring a lawyer who specializes in traffic violations. They can help assess the situation, advise you on the best course of action, and ensure that your case is handled with the utmost care and attention. Arthur L. Pressman, Attorney at Law is dedicated to providing top-tier legal services to those facing traffic violations, ensuring the best possible result for each case.
Mistake #4: Not Taking a Defensive Driving Course
Did you know that in many states, completing a defensive driving course can help reduce points on your license and lower insurance premiums? Many drivers, however, fail to consider this option or don’t realize they are eligible for it. Defensive driving courses are designed to help you improve your driving skills while also providing the benefit of reducing the negative impact of a speeding ticket on your driving record.
How to Avoid It:
If you have the option to take a defensive driving course, take advantage of it. Not only will it help you stay safe on the road, but it can also have a positive impact on your driving record. In some cases, completing the course may even prevent points from being added to your record, which can help avoid increased insurance rates. Additionally, if your ticket has led to an increase in points, a defensive driving course may allow you to reduce those points, giving you a cleaner record.
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Mistake #5: Not Considering the Long-Term Impact on Insurance
One of the most significant consequences of receiving a speeding ticket is the effect it can have on your insurance rates. Many drivers fail to realize that speeding violations can stay on your record for years and lead to higher insurance premiums. In some cases, accumulating too many points could even result in the suspension of your driver’s license, which would have long-term implications on your ability to drive and maintain insurance.
How to Avoid It:
If you want to prevent your speeding ticket from impacting your insurance premiums, consider consulting with a lawyer. A qualified lawyer can help negotiate a reduction in penalties and may be able to prevent the ticket from being added to your record. Additionally, some states allow drivers to take a defensive driving course to offset the points added to their record, potentially lowering your insurance premiums.
Mistake #6: Failing to Check for Ticket Errors
In some cases, speeding tickets are issued due to clerical or procedural errors. For example, the officer may have written down the wrong vehicle information, incorrectly marked the speed limit, or failed to follow the proper procedure during the traffic stop. While such errors may not always be immediately apparent, they can be used as a defense in court.
How to Avoid It:
Before paying the fine or accepting responsibility for the speeding violation, take the time to review the ticket carefully. Look for any errors in the officer’s report, such as incorrect vehicle information or discrepancies in the recorded speed. If you notice any mistakes, it may be worth discussing the case with a traffic attorney who can investigate the matter further. They may be able to use these errors to challenge the ticket in court, potentially leading to its dismissal.
Mistake #7: Not Preparing for Your Court Hearing
If you decide to contest your ticket in court, it’s essential to be prepared. Many drivers fail to properly prepare for a court hearing and, as a result, end up with a worse outcome. Preparation involves more than just showing up on the day of the hearing; it’s about presenting your case effectively and providing evidence to support your argument.
How to Avoid It:
Before your court hearing, it’s essential to gather all relevant evidence, such as witness statements, speedometer calibration records, and any other documentation that could support your case. It’s also important to be organized and ready to present your case clearly and concisely. Hiring an experienced traffic attorney can help ensure that you’re fully prepared for your court date and that you have the best chance of a favorable outcome.
Handling a speeding ticket doesn’t have to be a stressful or overwhelming experience. By avoiding these common mistakes, you can significantly improve your chances of a favorable outcome. Whether you choose to contest the ticket, hire a lawyer, or take a defensive driving course, the key is to be proactive and informed. If you need assistance with a speeding ticket or other traffic violation in the Buffalo area, contact Arthur L. Pressman, Attorney at Law for expert legal representation. Our team is here to help you navigate the process and protect your driving record.