Common Traffic Ticket Myths And Misconceptions Many Drivers Fall For
With so much misinformation on the web, it’s no surprise some individuals fall for myths about traffic tickets and other laws. These false beliefs could lead to serious consequences that could raise your insurance rates and even ruin your driving record if you’re not careful. This article will go through the most common myths related to traffic tickets and clear up any misunderstandings.
Myth 1: Your Ticket Disappears If You Pay More
The laws regarding the penalties for each traffic infraction are clear. Paying more for a ticket won’t get you off the hook. If anything, the local government will refund any extra money. Most traffic infractions will still appear on your driving record even years after they happened, regardless of whether you paid the associated fine or not.
However, New York’s points system only calculates traffic violations you had in the last 18 months. After that, the state stops counting them towards your total. Additionally, non-moving violations like illegal parking won’t appear on your record.
Myth 2: Tickets Automatically Get Dismissed If The Officer Doesn’t Show Up To Court
An officer needs to show up to court. If they don’t, the courts may dismiss your case. However, things can get more complicated depending on the judge. Some will reschedule the hearing for a more convenient date. In this case, it may take another hearing or two before the judge dismisses it.
Myth 3: You Can Drive Faster If You’re Passing Someone
Speeding is rarely justified in a court of law, even if the driver in front of you was driving slowly. Speed limits ensure everyone stays safe, and going over it because you’re passing someone won’t be acceptable. That said, going over the speed limit even by a few miles is an infraction.
Myth 4: A Ticket Doesn’t Count If You Don’t Sign It
Nowadays, a ticket isn’t the only evidence a police officer has against infractions. Most of them have radars, bodycams, and other technology that helps them gather evidence. Not signing your ticket won’t do anything to help your case, especially when the officer has proof of what you did.
Myth 5: Getting A Ticket In Other States Won’t Affect Your Record
Being out of state doesn’t make your ticket go away. Most states, including New York, are part of the Driver License Compact. This system lets states share information about suspended licenses or other traffic violations.
New York has even made pacts with Quebec and Ontario. Getting a violation in these Canadian provinces carries virtually the same weight as those committed in the state. If you receive a citation there, New York adds points to your license as if the traffic violation happened locally.
Create A Strong Defense Strategy With Our Help
Falling for these myths leads many drivers to deal with much more serious legal consequences than they should. Don’t be one of them. Avoid any misinformation and protect your driving record from being ruined. If you recently received a traffic ticket and want to fight it in court, our criminal defense attorneys are here to build a strong case on your behalf. Please contact us at (866) 506-3694 to schedule a free consultation today