Monday, July 25, 2016

How To Effectively Fight Traffic Ticket Issues

By Rebecca West


Every day, millions of vehicles make use of the vast road network. Many drivers spend numerous hours behind a steering wheel. Using the road can only be safe if all drivers obey the laws, and sadly, this is often not the case. Most drivers accept the fact that they have erred and will pay their fines. Many others, however, routinely opt to fight traffic ticket cases even if procedures differ from say, San Bernardino CA to Los Angeles.

It is often worth it to do whatever is necessary to get a fine reduced or even withdrawn. Many fines imply minus points that can have an impact on the ability of the driver having his license renewed or not. Negative points will also have an influence on the severity of future fines. Drivers that already have points against them are particularly keen to avoid accumulating even more.

Firstly, it is important to read the fine from top to bottom. It is important to understand exactly what the offence was that led to the fine. The fine will also indicate how long the respondent had to act upon the matter. It is vital to respond within this time limit, otherwise all chances of defending the matter will be lost. Once the court is informed that the matter will be defended, a court date will be issued.

Another important matter is to record as many details as is possible. Drivers should make notes about the weather condition, the state of the road, the intensity of traffic and any other information that may prove useful during the hearing. Taking photographs to support such notes is also an excellent idea as they will help the defendant to state his case.

While waiting for the date when the hearing will take place, it may be a good idea to make an appointment to see the prosecutor. The traffic courts are utterly overwhelmed by cases and prosecutors are often more than willing to come to some form of agreement. They can lessen the fine, agree that no negative points will be issued and even cancel the fine altogether. This is especially the case with drivers that have not accumulated many negative points.

If a hearing is inevitable, proper preparation is vital. The defendant should have his arguments ready and avoid wasting time in court. It may even be a good idea to practice at home. Supporting documents and photographs should be ready and clearly marked. It is important to show respect to all court officials and to dress neatly.

Many road offences are viewed as relatively minor matters, but the principle of being considered innocent until proven guilty remains firmly in place. The prosecutors will therefore be forced to lead evidence to prove the guilt of the defendant. In many cases this is deemed a waste of time and valuable resources and in this way many cases are dismissed simply because the offender chose to defend the matter.

Even if it is possible to contest the majority of fines, often successfully, it is also important to try to be a model citizen that obeys and respects the law. Being able to get away with something does not make it right. After all, the purpose of all laws are to protect society and its members.




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