When you get into a legal bind behind the wheel, make sure that Higgins Law is in your camp to help guide you through the process to get these traffic related headaches resolved and behind you.
No matter how careful we are, sooner or later, we will all see the flashing blue and red lights in the rear view mirror, and we know we’re about to get a traffic ticket. Whether the traffic ticket is for speeding, following too closely, reckless driving, or some other violation, traffic tickets are a hassle and often can be a substantial financial strain. The stress is multiplied if you know that one more ticket could result in a suspended driver’s license, and that your insurance premiums could go through the roof. In addition, factor in the cost of missing work to go to court.
Here are answers to frequently asked questions about traffic tickets.
Should I just pay the ticket and save the trouble?
No. You should know that if you mail in the payment for a speeding or traffic ticket in Tennessee, you are pleading guilty to the offense, and you will face the consequences of a conviction for the offense.
At the time you are pulled over, a traffic ticket may seem no more than just a nuisance. However, the long-term consequences of being convicted of the charges or “just paying” a speeding or traffic ticket in Tennessee can be very serious and extremely costly. Some of the potential problems are:
- A fine and/or court costs.
- Probation.
- Points added to your driving record
- Suspension or revocation of your license.
- Car insurance premiums increased and/or denial of insurance.
If a recent traffic ticket has put you in danger of suffering any or all of these hardships, don’t worry. At the Law Office of John Frank Higgins, we have the experience and skill to represent you, and to help you avoid these consequences. The facts of each case vary.
Isn’t it cheaper for me just to pay the traffic ticket and plead guilty than to hire a lawyer?
False. As reviewed earlier, the collateral costs of a traffic ticket can be extremely high. For example, let’s say that you were given a traffic ticket for doing 66 miles an hour in a 40 mph zone and some other miscellaneous charge. Paying that traffic ticket will add an 8 point assessment to your Tennessee driver’s license. In Tennessee, if you are assessed 12 or more points within one year, your driver’s license may be suspended. With that many points, most insurance companies will raise your monthly premiums between 30% and 50% for three years. Add that cost to the fine and court costs, and you are facing total costs in the thousands of dollars. With 8 points on your license, you are only 4 points away from a possible driver’s license suspension. There is no way to calculate the cost of the effect of the hassle of losing your driving privilege.
If I complete driving school, won’t my speeding ticket or traffic ticket automatically be dismissed?
False. Only a judge can dismiss a speeding ticket or traffic ticket in Tennessee, and this is determined on a case-by-case basis.
Learn more by watching a video of my appearance on the Tennessee Mornings tv show.