Slow Down -- That Traffic Ticket Costs More Than You Think

Everyone knows that sinking feeling you get when you see blue lights in your rear view mirror. If you are unfortunate enough to receive a moving violation, it may be tempting to merely pay the fine listed on the back of the summons, but beware. By simply paying the fine, you are pleading guilty to a violation that carries points, which can affect your auto insurance rates as well as jeopardize your driver’s license.

Motor Vehicle Services (MVS) tracks your driving behavior by adding points to your record when you are convicted of a moving violation. The more serious the violation, the more points you are assessed. The stated purpose for this system is to protect others from proven bad drivers.
The biggest consequence is State surcharges — six points in three years or less will produce a $100 annual charge (plus $25 for each additional point) added to your mandatory auto insurance policy. With insurance costs already among the nation’s highest, for drivers good or bad, it is thought this monetary penalty will act as a strong deterrent. Extra surcharges for related violations such as driving without a valid license or letting your insurance lapse, range from $100 to $250. Further, if you are assessed 12 points or more, your license will be automatically suspended.
Our firm strives to eliminate or reduce points for moving violations by negotiating with the municipal prosecutor to amend certain offenses to non-point violations. Although the cost is initially higher than simply paying the ticket, the elimination or reduction of points is well worth the expense in the long run.

So beware — before you pay that ticket, call for a free consultation so you are fully aware of your rights and the consequences of your violation.