Some people who get traffic tickets wonder, “How long does a speeding ticket affect your insurance?” or “How does a cell phone ticket impact your driving record?”
As with many things, that varies. For example, if this newest ticket is just the latest one in a long line of tickets or accidents, it could have a serious effect that lasts years or more. On the other hand, if your driving record is otherwise impeccable, the effect might be minimal and short-lasting. Similarly, if you decide to fight the ticket, it could possibly get dismissed and have no impact whatsoever on your insurance or driving record.
Texting and driving is dangerous so the police treat it seriously. If you get pulled over or charged with this act, you need help from the best reckless driving ticket fixers from the Ticket Clinic. With the help of a careless driving ticket attorney, you can avoid the costly penalties. But what exactly happens when you get caught for texting while driving? Let’s find out.
Impact on Your Driving Record
You may be familiar with California’s point system for traffic violations. If you receive too many points for traffic offenses, you may experience increased insurance rates and even lose your driving privileges, meaning you’ll need a suspended license lawyer. Texting and driving violations will show up on your driving record, but it won’t add any points. While there are other serious consequences for distracted driving, you can be comforted knowing it won’t accumulate points on your record.
Distracted Driving Fines
If you get busted for using your phone on the road, you may be faced with some hefty fines. The minimum fine for your first offense is $20. For subsequent offenses, the minimum is $50. However, you may end up owing more than this due to additional assessments. A distracted driving violation may result in you paying hundreds of dollars.
Speeding Tickets Can Be Dismissed
“Do speeding tickets go away?” is another thought many people have. They can indeed go away and be dismissed, but you do have to fight them. One way to decide what you want to do is to type, “traffic courts near me,” into your smartphone or click on the link. You have various options such as paying via a drop box, court website or mail. You can also learn more about payment assistance programs.
Contrary to popular belief, you don’t need to automatically pay the fines associated with your phone-related violation. With the help of the best accident ticket lawyers here at the Ticket Clinic, you may be able to defend yourself and eliminate the fines. Potential defenses include:
- You were parked while using your phone.
- You were making an emergency call.
- You were driving on private property.
- Your passenger was using the phone.
- You were using hands-free technology.
The Main Decision is Whether to Pay or Fight Your Ticket
Do make an educated decision if you decide to pay your ticket instead of fight it. Even if it is your first ticket, your insurance rates will likely increase at least a little bit. After a period of safe driving such as a year with no additional tickets or accidents, your rates may drop to their pre-ticket levels. However, if you happen to get a second ticket during that period, you will likely see a much more significant insurance increase. It’s generally best to have no speeding ticket record whatsoever.
The same idea applies to other ticket types such as a hands free ticket, also known as a texting and driving ticket. Lawyers have a surprising number of ways to argue the different types of traffic tickets. It never hurts to consult with one about your case and see if you have good odds of getting a ticket dismissed.
Whether you need help related to distracted driving or a speeding ticket fix, you can count on the Ticket Clinic. Get a free consultation by calling 1-800-248-2846.
