Most every driver at some point will receive a traffic ticket. It is just too easy to make a mistake on the road. Likewise, officers are more vigilant than ever before, knowing that fines are an important revenue stream for their municipalities. Last, but not least, technology, such as cameras and speed radars, provide more information to the authorities than was true in the past. The result is that people often believe that they should just accept their fate and pay the fine. They may plead guilty and hope for mercy.So, is capitulating to the state the best action? Perhaps not. There are proven ways to beat a traffic ticket in California. Read on to find out some steps ticketed drivers take to stay out of trouble and save money on fines.
Written Trial
Rather than plead guilty to a traffic violation, many California motorists take advantage of the right to a written trial. This procedure allows them to receive a decision on their case through the mail. Since there is no need to appear in court, a written trial is fairly unobtrusive.Those unsuccessful at this level can still request a courtroom trial, so they lose little by requesting a written court declaration.
California Traffic Court
It is well worth the effort to appear in traffic court to avoid driving penalties. California motorists with multiple traffic citations can face criminal charges and higher insurance rates. Many avoid these problems by going to trial where it is possible to beat a traffic ticket in California.In many cases, the police officer will be unavailable during the appointed time. Some even realize their mistake, which a traffic court watchdog group might make clear to them before the trial. They may want to avoid the trouble of appearing before a judge. Regardless of the reason, it is possible the citing officer will not show up for the proceedings. The judge should issue a default verdict for the motorist, ending the process.If the police does appear for the trial, then an experienced ticket fighter can question the citation. If there was a mistake in following any procedure, then the judge may rule for the driver. Others have been successful by using science to prove they could not have physically been driving in the manner mentioned in the citation.
Automatically Pleading Guilty
Pleading guilty or nolo contendere is an option some choose to take. These people may want to just get on with life and forget the citation. However, fines and fees can be exorbitant. Guilty pleas also become a problem because they establish a negative driving record. The next traffic violation will be treated even more serious by the court. Fighting the ticket and winning means a clean record.
Stay Safe on the Roads
Armed with this knowledge, the average driver can possibly beat their traffic ticket in California. Always remember that a traffic ticket fighting firm, such as Ticket Snipers, is the best source of advice on just what strategy to take.