How Can a Lawyer Help You Fight a Speeding Ticket?

How Can a Lawyer Help You Fight a Speeding Ticket?

The sudden realization that you just passed an officer while going 20 over is not a pleasant one. While paying the speeding ticket’s fine might seem like the quickest way to make this problem go away, doing so is ultimately an admission of guilt that carries hidden costs. At Worthley Law, we understand that a traffic ticket is more than just a minor inconvenience; it is a legal matter that can have lasting financial and professional repercussions. Former Deputy Prosecutor Mark Worthley understands how the prosecution builds their case. We can use that experience to defend your rights and protect your driving record.

What Is Indiana’s Point System for Traffic Violations?

Many drivers assume a speeding ticket is simply a financial penalty. However, the Indiana Bureau of Motor Vehicles utilizes a point system to track driving behavior. When you pay a ticket, you are effectively pleading guilty, and points are automatically assessed to your driving record.

These points relate directly to the severity of the offense:

• 1 to 15 mph over the limit: 2 points
• 16 to 25 mph over the limit: 4 points
• Over 26 mph over the limit: 6 points

These points remain active on your driving record for two years from the conviction date. This is where the true cost of a ticket lies, as insurance companies review these records to assess risk. A conviction may signal to your insurer that you are a “high-risk” driver, which often triggers a significant increase in your premiums that can last for years and cost you far more than the original fine.

How Can a Lawyer Help Negotiate Reductions?

You do not have to accept the penalties on the ticket as final. A lawyer can review the details and identify opportunities for negotiation that you might miss on your own.

At Worthley Legal, we can assist in several ways:

• Deferral Programs: We can negotiate with the prosecutor for an infraction deferral. Typically, this involves paying a fee and agreeing to maintain a clean record for a set period. If successful, the ticket is dismissed and never appears on your driving record.
• Amended Charges: We may be able to negotiate the violation down to a non-moving violation, which typically carries no points.
• Driver Safety Program (DSP): We can advise on whether completing a DSP course is a viable option to receive a four-point credit on your license.

These and other options may be possible to help mitigate the consequences of a traffic violation.

When Should You Request a Hearing?

On your ticket, there is usually a date for an initial hearing or instructions on how to pay. Do not simply pay the ticket if you intend to fight it, as payment is an admission of guilt.

You should consider retaining counsel and requesting a hearing if:

• The points from the ticket will put you at risk of a license suspension.
• You work in a profession that requires a clean driving record (such as CDL drivers).
• You believe the citation was issued in error.
• You want to explore options to keep the conviction off your insurance record.

In Indiana, you must formally deny the violation to proceed to a trial. Failing to appear at your scheduled hearing or to respond via payment of the fine can result in the suspension of your driver’s license.

Protect Your Driving Privileges

A speeding ticket doesn’t have to derail your life or drain your bank account through higher insurance rates. You have the opportunity to challenge the citation and negotiate for a better outcome.

At Worthley Law, we provide the aggressive defense and local legal knowledge necessary to protect your driving record and your wallet. If you have been cited for speeding in Northwest Indiana, contact our team today to discuss your options.