When you’re driving through New York, you might not think anything of speeding a bit. Maybe you’re 5, 10 or 15 mph over the limit. You’re in control of your vehicle, so it’s not a big deal, right?
Unfortunately, the laws are strict in the state and even minor speeding violations can lead to harsh fines. Fortunately, you do still have the right to debate the charges and defend yourself in court.
Is a speeding ticket very serious?
Many people don’t think speeding tickets are serious, but they can add up over time and lead to the loss of your license. Depending on how fast you were traveling, you could end up paying hundreds in fines and potentially have your license suspended on a first offense.
It’s smart to defend yourself and contest a speeding ticket. If you decide to pay the ticket, that’s the same thing as admitting that you were speeding and pleading guilty to the violation. Not defending yourself means that you will pay the full fine required by the court and face the maximum penalties. With the help of your attorney, you may be able to avoid paying as much of a fine or could have the entire violation dismissed.
If you are from another state and receive a ticket here in New York, don’t worry. You can contest the speeding ticket without having to come back to the state. While it might be easier to pay what’s owed, it’s still your right to defend yourself and contest the violation. Doing so could help you avoid points on your license and minimize the fees you pay.