Raleigh Traffic Ticket Lawyer

Raleigh Traffic Ticket Attorney

Traffic tickets are an annoyance. While not as devastating as a car accident, a traffic ticket can have a long-lasting effect on your driving record and your insurance, especially if you fail to go through the proper process to get it taken care of. You could even have your license suspended. In order to fight your ticket or ensure that it doesn’t become a real problem, you may want to consult with a Raleigh traffic ticket lawyer.

At Steven T. Meier, PLLC, our Raleigh criminal defense lawyers know how to fight any traffic ticket. While minor offenses are often not treated seriously, we know that they can have a significant impact on your finances, your ability to drive, and your insurance premiums.

Common Traffic Violations in North Carolina

The traffic ticket process in North Carolina can appear involved and a bit confusing, so it’s always advisable to retain the services of a Raleigh criminal defense lawyer. After all, having someone on your side who understands the ins and outs of North Carolina traffic laws can only benefit you. Traffic violations can happen to any driver at any time, especially if they are not paying attention. Here are some common violations that occur:

• Speeding: Whenever you are driving over the posted speed limit, you put yourself at risk of getting pulled over and receiving a traffic ticket for speeding. Unless otherwise posted, North Carolina state law dictates that the assumed speed limit is 35 mph inside a municipality and 55 mph outside the borders of a municipality. If you are caught driving over 80 mph in any situation, you can be charged with a Class 3 misdemeanor.
• Driving Below the Speed Limit: Driving under the speed limit can be just as dangerous as driving over it. North Carolina state law dictates that you can be pulled over for going less than 40 mph in a 55-mph zone or less than 45 mph in a 60-mph zone. It is a speeding violation to be driving so slowly on the highway that you are disrupting the flow of regular traffic.
• Work Zone: If you are caught speeding through a work zone, you will likely incur an automatic fine of $250 per the guidelines established under North Carolina state law. Work zones are unpredictable and often have construction workers coming and going across the road. Speeding through those areas puts workers, other drivers, and yourself in unnecessary danger.
• School Zone: Similar to a work zone, if you are caught speeding through a school zone, you will also likely incur an automatic fee of $250. School zones will usually be easy to see thanks to flashing signs or police officers directing traffic. Speeding through a school zone puts children at great unnecessary risk. North Carolina takes school zone speeding very seriously, and you could incur insurance points on top of the fine.
• Reckless Driving: Reckless driving is a term that encompasses many types of dangerous behavior behind the wheel. Effectively, it can be considered any behavior that is unnecessarily dangerous and puts the lives of others in unavoidable danger including assault. Driving carelessly, flaunting speed limits, or unlawfully racing could result in a charge of reckless driving, which is a Class 2 misdemeanor, on top of the traffic ticket.

FAQs

Q: How Much Does a Traffic Lawyer Cost in North Carolina?

A: Every traffic lawyer is different and charges different fees for their services, so there’s no telling exactly how much a traffic lawyer might cost in North Carolina. Every traffic case carries different circumstances that are unique to the case at hand. The traffic lawyer you decide to hire will take your circumstances into account, along with the caseload and other details. Some lawyers might charge flat fees, while others might charge by the hour.

Q: How Do You Get a Traffic Ticket Dismissed in North Carolina?

A: If you want to try to get your traffic ticket dismissed in North Carolina, you can attempt to fight the ticket in traffic court by entering a plea of “not guilty.” You may consider hiring a traffic lawyer to provide you with advice before delivering your argument before the court.

You would then plead your case before a judge and hope that the ticket is dismissed based on your testimony. While there’s no guarantee your ticket will be dismissed, it may be worth the effort to present your case effectively if you feel you’re not guilty.

Q: How Do I Fight a Traffic Ticket in North Carolina?

A: The most effective way to fight a traffic ticket in North Carolina is to hire an experienced traffic ticket lawyer to assist you in developing your case and contesting the ticket in court. Your attorney will examine your case, offer you sound legal advice, and help you gather evidence that backs up your claim. The odds of your success in traffic court become better when you hire an experienced attorney.

Q: How Long Do Speeding Tickets Stay on Your Record in North Carolina?

A: Typically, speeding tickets will stay on your driving record in North Carolina for three years. During the time that your ticket is a part of your record, you will likely see your insurance rates go up as well. You always have the option of trying to fight your ticket in court before it becomes a mark on your record, but there are no guarantees you will succeed, especially if you do not have a lawyer.

Reach Out to a Traffic Ticket Lawyer Today

Fighting a traffic ticket becomes an easier endeavor when you have an experienced traffic ticket lawyer by your side who can argue the merits of your case. The legal team at Steven T. Meier, PLLC, is prepared to offer you the knowledge and compassion that may benefit you as you contest your ticket.

We can help you gather evidence that supports your claim, build your defense, and argue before a judge to help protect your driving record. Contact us to discuss your case with a skilled lawyer during an initial consultation.