We’ve all been there: Driving down the freeway and the dreaded patrol lights turn on in your rearview mirror. This is when a driver glances down to see how fast he has been driving and how much trouble he may be in. Many drivers have received a traffic ticket in Mississippi and most just pay the fines and move on. Traffic tickets may not seem like a big deal to some people, but they lead to expensive consequences. When is it worth fighting a traffic ticket?
Speeding tickets
Speeding tickets are one of the most common traffic tickets in Mississippi. Depending on how fast you were going and what area you were driving in they can also be very expensive. Speeding through work zones or school zones have additional harsh penalties.
Reckless driving
A reckless driving ticket is typically handed out when a driver has alleged aggressive or dangerous driving behaviors. The ticket usually arises from a perceived lack of regard for other motorists and pedestrians.
Failure to yield
Failing to yield, making illegal turns, running red lights and various other traffic offenses can lead to traffic tickets. No matter what the circumstances are behind the ticket, it is always best to talk with a lawyer.
Consequences of traffic tickets
There are many penalties for traffic tickets. These include:
- Depending on the type of ticket and how many moving violations you are facing you could be facing hundreds or even thousands of dollars in fines.
- Traffic tickets also lead to points on your driving record.
- Your insurance rate will go up after a traffic ticket, leading to years of increased premium payments.
- If you have many moving violations or a drunk driving arrest or other serious moving violation, you could lose your license.
An attorney who specializes in criminal defense can help their client understand their options when it comes to the traffic ticket they are facing. The best chance you have at fighting and beating a traffic ticket is with the help of an attorney.