When you get a traffic ticket, it’s tempting to pay the fine and move on. After all, it’s not like you committed a serious crime, right? Wrong. Traffic tickets are serious business. You could pay much more than the initial fine if you don’t contest your ticket. You could also end up with points on your license, leading to higher insurance rates. Accumulating 12 or more points within 12 months results in a suspension of your Wisconsin driver’s license.
What is a Traffic Ticket?
A traffic ticket is a notice issued by a law enforcement officer to a motorist or other road user for violating traffic laws. Traffic tickets generally come in two forms: citations and summons. A citation is issued on the spot and requires the offender to pay a fine, while a summons requires the offender to appear in court.
Reasons to Contest a Traffic Ticket
The only way to prevent the accumulation of points is to avoid receiving them in the first place. Other reasons to contest a traffic ticket include the following:
- You may be able to get the charges dropped, especially if it is your first traffic offense.
- You might be able to negotiate a reduced sentence with the prosecutor, resulting in a lower fine or even taking the points off your license.
- Failure to contest the ticket is equivalent to pleading guilty. On the other hand, contesting ensures you’ll at least get a chance to have your say in court.
Of course, contesting a traffic ticket takes time and effort. You’ll need to gather evidence and present your case in court. Seeking the advice and representation of a proven traffic defense lawyer is the best way to assert your rights without the process taking over your life.
