A speeding ticket doesn’t seem like a big deal, does it? While it’s a hassle, it seems like almost every driver has gotten one at some point or another. However, depending on your speed and location, both the ticket itself and the long-term consequences can be quite serious. Our Raleigh speeding ticket lawyers are providing an in-depth look at what you can expect after getting a citation and what your options are.
Understanding the Initial Cost of Your North Carolina Speeding Ticket
Navigating the financial implications of a speeding ticket in North Carolina requires a clear understanding of the variable costs involved. The initial cost of a speeding ticket in this state is not a uniform charge; it varies significantly based on the degree by which the speed limit was exceeded.
Consider a scenario where you are driving at a speed slightly above the limit, say 5 mph over in a 55 mph zone. In such cases, the fine is typically around $10. However, this amount is merely the base fine and does not encompass the total financial obligation. Court costs and additional fees in North Carolina can add a substantial amount to this base fine, often totaling a minimum of $188. Therefore, a seemingly minor infraction can result in a considerably higher expenditure.
The financial repercussions are even more substantial in specific zones. For instance, speeding in a school or work zone incurs a mandatory fine of $250, exclusive of court costs and fees. This heightened penalty reflects the increased risk and potential consequences of speeding in these sensitive areas.
| Speed Over Limit | Base Fine | Additional Costs |
|---|---|---|
| 1-5 mph | $10 | Plus approximately $188 in court costs and fees |
| 6-10 mph | $15 | Plus approximately $188 in court costs and fees |
| 11-15 mph | $30 | Plus approximately $188 in court costs and fees |
| 16 mph or more | $50 | Plus approximately $188 in court costs and fees |
Speeding in School and Work Zones: Additional Penalties
Speeding in any capacity in a school zone or work zone carries an automatic $250 fine along with court costs and fees. Also, if you were speeding over a 55 mph limit but driving less than 80 mph or driving over 80 mph, this is a Level 3 misdemeanor, and you may be facing additional fines and even jail and a loss of driving privileges.
Options for Waiving Your Speeding Ticket and Court Fees
Firstly, let’s clarify what ‘waiving’ a ticket means. In North Carolina, for certain minor speeding violations, you have the option to resolve your case without appearing in court. This process, known as ‘waiving’, involves paying the fine and court costs before your scheduled court date. It’s important to note that by choosing this route, you are essentially admitting guilt to the offense, which will be reflected on your driving record and could affect your insurance premiums.
Now, how do you know if your ticket is eligible for a waiver? Typically, law enforcement officers indicate on the ticket whether the offense is waivable and the amount you need to pay. For example, if you were caught driving 6-10 mph over the speed limit, your ticket might state a $15 fine plus court costs, which you can pay to waive the ticket. Remember, the total amount will include the base fine plus additional court costs, which in North Carolina, often total around $188.
The process of waiving can be done online, in person at the courthouse, or by mail. If you choose to waive online or by mail, ensure that your payment is processed well before the court date to avoid any complications. Keep in mind that waiving a ticket is a straightforward process but does not allow for negotiation or reduction of charges.
However, if your violation is more serious, or if you believe the ticket was issued in error, waiving may not be the best option. In such cases, appearing in court or consulting with a traffic attorney could provide an opportunity to contest the ticket or negotiate for a lesser charge.
Consequences of Admitting Guilt by Paying the Ticket
Paying your speeding ticket is legally considered an admission of guilt. This means you are acknowledging that you committed the offense as charged. While this might seem like the simplest way to deal with the situation, it’s important to be aware of the ripple effects this admission can have.
Speeding Tickets and License Points
In addition to the initial ticket and costs associated, a speeding ticket will put “points” on your driver’s license. Basically, this is a record of moving violations with certain violations scoring higher than others. However, if you receive seven points in three years, you may be required to take a state-approved driving class, while 12 points in three years is punished by a 60-day license suspension.
Let’s look at how points are assigned for speeding:
- Speeding in a school zone: 3 points
- Speeding over 55 mph: 3 points
- Speeding in a work zone: 3 points
- All other speeding violations: 2 points
Speeding Tickets and Insurance Points
Points are also placed on your insurance when you receive a moving violation which can lead to extremely high increases in your premium. According to the Consumer Guide to Automobile Insurance published by the NC Department of Insurance, the percent of rate increase is as follows:
- Speeding 10 mph or less over a speed limit under 55 mph: 30 percent
- Speeding over 10 mph at a total speed of over 55 mph but below 76 mph: 45 percent
- Speeding 10 mph or less over a speed limit in a posted zone of 55 mph or above: 45 mph
- Speeding in excess of 75 mph when the speed limit is below 70 mph: 80 percent
- Speeding in excess of 80 mph when the limit is 70 mph or above: 80 percent
These rate increases compound, in that if you get a speeding ticket driving 62 mph in a 55 mph zone, you’ll see a 30 mph increase in your premium. If you get a second ticket a year later for the same offense, you’ll see an additional 30 percent increase on top of this.
Possible Employment Implications
For those whose employment involves driving, such as commercial drivers, admitting guilt to a speeding offense can have professional ramifications. Some employers regularly check the driving records of their employees, and a history of traffic violations could impact your job security or future employment opportunities in roles that require a clean driving record.
Options Beyond Paying the Fine
If you’re concerned about these consequences, remember that paying the fine is not your only option. You have the right to contest the ticket in court, which could lead to the charges being reduced or dismissed, especially if there are mitigating circumstances or if it’s your first offense. Consulting with a traffic attorney can provide you with a clearer understanding of your options and the likelihood of a successful challenge to your ticket.
Legal Representation: When to Consider Hiring an Attorney for a Speeding Ticket in North Carolina
Facing a speeding ticket in North Carolina can be more than just a minor inconvenience; it can have significant legal and financial repercussions. In such situations, you might wonder whether it’s necessary to seek legal representation. Understanding when to consider hiring an attorney can be crucial in navigating the complexities of traffic law and potentially mitigating the consequences of your ticket.
Assessing the Severity of Your Ticket
The first step is to assess the severity of your speeding violation. Minor infractions, like going slightly over the speed limit, might not necessitate legal representation. However, if you’re facing a more serious charge, such as reckless driving or speeding significantly over the limit, the stakes are higher. These offenses can lead to hefty fines, points on your license, increased insurance rates, and even potential jail time. In such cases, having an attorney can be invaluable.
Understanding the Legal System
Traffic laws can be complex and vary significantly from one jurisdiction to another. An experienced traffic attorney will have a deep understanding of North Carolina’s traffic laws and court procedures. They can navigate the legal system efficiently, saving you time and reducing the stress associated with handling the case on your own.
Negotiating a Better Outcome
One of the key benefits of hiring an attorney is their ability to negotiate with the court on your behalf. An attorney may be able to reduce your charges, have them dismissed, or negotiate for alternative penalties like traffic school, which can help keep your driving record clean. They can also advise you on the feasibility of contesting the ticket in court based on the evidence and circumstances of your case.
When Your Driving Privileges are at Risk
If you’re at risk of losing your driving privileges due to the accumulation of points or the nature of the violation, hiring an attorney becomes even more critical. They can advocate on your behalf to protect your license, which is especially important if you rely on driving for work or other essential activities.
Cost-Benefit Analysis
Consider the cost of hiring an attorney versus the potential fines, increased insurance rates, and other long-term costs associated with the ticket. In many cases, the long-term savings and benefits can outweigh the cost of legal representation.
Commercial Drivers and Out-of-State Drivers
If you’re a commercial driver, even a minor speeding ticket can have significant implications for your career. Similarly, if you’re an out-of-state driver, navigating the legal system in North Carolina can be challenging. In both scenarios, an attorney’s expertise can be particularly beneficial.
Consequences of Missing a Court Date for a Speeding Ticket in North Carolina
If you’ve received a speeding ticket in North Carolina and a court appearance is required, it’s crucial to understand the consequences of missing your scheduled court date. Failing to appear in court can lead to a series of legal complications, some of which can have long-lasting effects on your driving privileges and legal standing.
Issuance of a Failure to Appear (FTA): The most immediate consequence of missing a court date is the issuance of a Failure to Appear (FTA). Once an FTA is recorded, it sets off a chain of events that can complicate your situation. The court may impose additional fines and penalties on top of those associated with the original speeding ticket.
License Suspension: One of the more severe consequences of an FTA is the potential suspension of your driver’s license. In North Carolina, the Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) is notified of your failure to appear, and they may suspend your driving privileges. This suspension remains in effect until you resolve the outstanding ticket and the FTA.
Increased Fines and Penalties: In addition to the original fine for the speeding ticket, failing to appear in court can result in additional financial penalties. These fines are added to the existing amount you owe and can significantly increase the total cost.
Warrant for Arrest: In some cases, particularly if the speeding violation is severe or if there are multiple FTAs, the court may issue a warrant for your arrest. This means you could be arrested and required to post bail, adding a criminal element to what might have initially been a simple traffic violation.
Impact on Future Court Proceedings: Having an FTA on your record can negatively impact how you are perceived in future legal proceedings. It may affect the court’s willingness to grant leniency or consider alternative sentencing options in the future.
Difficulty in Resolving the Ticket: Once an FTA is issued, resolving the original speeding ticket becomes more complicated. You may need to appear in court to clear the FTA, in addition to addressing the speeding ticket itself. This process often requires more time and potentially legal assistance.
Steps to Take if You Miss Your Court Date: If you realize you’ve missed a court date, it’s important to act quickly. Contact the court as soon as possible to explain your absence and inquire about rescheduling. In some cases, you may be able to resolve the FTA without significant penalties, especially if you have a valid reason for missing the court date.
Schedule a Free Consultation with a Speeding Ticket Lawyer in Wake County
If you are facing a speeding ticket, the long-term costs and consequences can be much higher than you may realize. At The Coolidge Law Firm, we’re dedicated to having speeding tickets reduced or even eliminated for our clients so they can move forward freely after a mistake. To learn more about our services or to schedule a free consultation, call us today at (919) 239-8448 or fill out the form below to get started.
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