Many people commit traffic offenses and receive traffic citations or “traffic tickets” every day. Very often, the person cited goes to court alone and pays a fine and court costs. Sometimes, people “pre-pay” the traffic ticket, meaning they just mail in the payment or pay at the court clerk’s office before the scheduled court appearance. What many people do not consider is that by paying the fine, they are pleading guilty to an offense. The guilty plea often has far-reaching effects – from raising insurance rates to possible revocation of your driving privileges.
Per state laws, a driver with a Kentucky driver’s license is subject to a “point system.” Many traffic crimes or traffic violations result in “points” being added to your driving record. For example, reckless driving would be 4 points, and going 16-25 mph over the speed limit on any highway or road would be 6. If you accumulate too many points (12 or more), you could get a suspended license, or you may be placed on probation. Points remain on your record for two (2) years from the date of your guilty plea or conviction. There is also an option to attend traffic school to avoid or reduce any “points” on your license in many cases. Review your traffic ticket to see exactly what traffic offense, traffic violation, or traffic infraction you have been charged with. To see the amount of points you risk having assessed on your license, visit the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet’s breakdown here.
Remember – the Commonwealth has the burden of proving your guilt beyond a reasonable doubt
Although it may be easy to overlook traffic offenses and tickets because they don’t usually result in serious penalties such as jail time for example, fighting your traffic offenses is worth more in the long run. You should have an understanding as to the potential consequences of your decision as to how to respond to a traffic ticket with the help of a traffic ticket attorney from a reputable law firm in your area. Our Lexington’s best defense lawyers will assess your charges and discuss any potential defenses you may have. Your privilege to drive is too important to risk. Allow one of our attorneys to assist you in having the charge amended or dismissed. If you would like to discuss your traffic citation before going to court, or before making a final decision, speak with one of our attorneys by calling our office at 859-258-2697.
