Getting a traffic ticket in Kansas City is infuriating. You may be afraid of fines, higher insurance premiums, or suspended license. But you do not have to deal with it on your own. A talented traffic ticket lawyer in Kansas City can help you defend yourself and protect your rights.
Why You Should Fight Your Ticket
Most people just pay the fine and be on their merry way. Payment constitutes an admission of guilt. That bites you later. Any ticket puts points on your driving record. Too many points will suspend or even take away your license in bad cases. Fighting your ticket gives you a chance to clear your record and save you money in the long term. A lawyer can see flaws in a ticket. Small mistakes count. A wrong date, wrong speed, or wrong place can work in your favor.
Common Missouri Traffic Violations
There are a lot of traffic laws in the state of Missouri. Some of them are minor offenses, but others are serious offenses. Some of the causes of drivers getting tickets in Kansas City are the following:
- Speeding
- Driving through red light or stop sign
- Failure to signal when turning
- Driving without insurance documents
- Failure to yield for other vehicles
- Reckless or careless driving
- Improper lane change
- Driving with expired stickers
- Seat belt failure to use
Some of the tickets are bad. Reckless driving, for example, will require more punishment and jail time. Lack of insurance will cost you a lot and land you in more hot water. You can get an attorney to explain to you what you’re facing and what will happen. There are many regulations and possible scenarios for each ticket.
What Happens If You Just Pay the Ticket?
Most drivers simply pay the fine so it’s done. But it can come back to bite you down the road:
- You get points on your record.
- Your insurance company can increase your rate.
- Too many points, and your license is suspended.
Some employers will think twice about looking at your record if they require you to drive as part of your job. Even if you think the ticket is a small one, the points do have a way of piling up. The speeding ticket can haunt you for years. It can end up costing you hundreds or thousands of dollars extra in higher insurance.
How A Traffic Ticket Lawyer Can Help
Traffic tickets aren’t always as simple as they sound. A lawyer doesn’t simply sign documents. They advocate for your rights and battle to keep your record clean.
Some things your attorney can do for you are listed below:
Look Over the Ticket
Your attorney will look for mistakes. Mistakes are sufficient to get the ticket dismissed.
Build a Defense
Your attorney can get facts, photographs, or witness testimony in your behalf.
Negotiate a Better Outcome A lawyer can talk to the prosecutor and reduce charges or penalties.
Appear with You at Court
Your attorney can usually accompany you into court so that you do not have to take time off work. The process at the court is complicated. An attorney breaks it down and takes you through it step by step.
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Steps to Fight Your Ticket
You are inquiring what is done if you fight a ticket. These are the general steps:
Talk to an Attorney
Tell them about the information on your ticket. Bring any documents that you have.
Check the Ticket for Errors
The lawyer looks for date errors, information errors, or omission of facts.
Enter a Plea
You can plead not guilty. This starts the court proceedings.
Round Up Evidence
Your lawyer can gather photographs, witness testimonies, or other evidence.
Attend Court
In some cases, matters are settled without a trial. If necessary, your lawyer will take your case to court.
Receive a Ruling
The judge will decide whether you must pay, if your ticket is dismissed, or if it is lowered.
What if You Are Out of State?
If you received a Missouri ticket but are a visitor from another state, you are still going to have to deal with it. Missouri can send you back home. That would be marks on your home state record. A traffic attorney in Kansas City can handle most of it, so you will not have to come back for court in most cases.
Tips If You Get Pulled Over
What you do after you have been pulled over can help your case later on. Here are a few things to do:
- Pull over safely and in a timely manner.
- Stay in the car and keep hands on the wheel.
- Be polite and respectful.
- Don’t argue with the officer.
- Don’t admit guilt.
- Take down the officer’s name and badge number.
- Don’t give up any of the documents the officer gives you.
Your demeanor during the stop is worth something. Being polite will help you if you find yourself needing to fight the ticket later on.
How to Select the Top Traffic Ticket Attorney
Not all attorneys are alike. Select a lawyer who:
- Practices traffic law and tickets.
- Experienced in Kansas City courts.
- Charges open fees and offers payment arrangements.
- Has great testimonials or client testimonials.
- Calls back quickly and is willing to speak with you.
Most lawyers offer a free consultation. Take them up on this and ask:
- How many similar cases have you handled?
- What are the types of outcomes you’ve gotten?
- How much do you charge?
- Will you personally be handling my case?
A good lawyer will respond to your questions honestly and won’t make unrealistic guarantees.
The Significance of a Clear Motor Vehicle Record
A clear motor vehicle record benefits you in ways too numerous to count:
- Lower auto insurance cost.
- Better opportunities for transferring traffic tickets.
- Lower chances of having your license revoked.
- Feeling comfortable.
One ticket is not a big issue, but all the points do sum up. Standing up for a small ticket keeps your record clear.
When You Need Quick Help
Certain tickets require immediate action. Call an attorney right away if:
- The ticket requires you to appear in court.
- You already have points on your record.
- You were charged with driving negligently.
- Your ticket can land you in jail.
- You are an entrepreneur or work to live.
The earlier you get the assistance of an attorney, the greater your chances.
Your Next Step
You do not have to spoil your record with a ticket or pay more money. Help is within your phone call. A Kansas City dui defense attorney can look over your case, make you aware of your rights, and help you stand up for yourself. Call us now to save your license, your pocketbook, and your sanity.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Do I need an attorney to fight a traffic ticket?
Yes, you can try it yourself. But the regulations and laws are complex. An attorney can avoid errors and have a greater chance of winning.
2. Will contesting my ticket cost more than paying it?
It depends on your case. Sure, it costs a lot to hire an attorney, but you may save money in the long run because you won’t be paying fines on your ticket and higher insurance rates.
3. How long will it take to contest my ticket?
It usually takes a few weeks to a couple of months. Your lawyer will give you an idea of what to expect next.
4. Will I get my ticket thrown out?
Yes. Some tickets are not taken into consideration when there is fault or insufficient evidence. Every case is different, so talk to an attorney about your options.
5. Does a ticket ever stay on my driving record forever?
No. Points are on your record for a fixed amount of time. Most points in Missouri come off after three years. But having too many points can lead to a suspended license before they drop off.
