Evasive Action: Tackling Excessive Speeding Tickets in Mesa, Arizona
The last thing you want to see in your mailbox is an excessive speeding ticket, with a fine that threatens to drain your bank account. Speeding tickets happen to everyone, but paying excessive fines for slight infractions can be frustrating and confusing in Mesa, Arizona.
There are many reasons why you may receive an excessive speeding ticket fine. In some cases, the fine may be due to a serious traffic violation or a combination of traffic offenses. At other times, the fine may be exorbitant simply because the officer who issued the ticket decided to slap a hefty penalty on you.
So, what do you do if you receive an excessive speeding ticket in Mesa, Arizona? In this blog post, we’ll take a closer look at excessive speeding ticket fines and penalties, and what steps you can take to protect yourself.
Excessiv e Speeding Ticket Fines and Penalties in Mesa, Arizona
A speeding ticket is essentially a notice from local or state law enforcement that you have violated traffic rules. When you receive a citation for excessive speeding, the consequences can be serious.
If you engage in criminal speeding, you could be charged with a class 3 misdemeanor, may face a $500 fine, and be sentenced to 30 days or fewer in jail. Furthermore, due to accumulating points on your record, your insurance rates may go up. Moreover, having a permanent criminal record and your license suspended are some additional consequences you may have to face as a result of criminal speeding.
Your criminal conviction may limit your job options and prevent you from obtaining some professional licenses. It may also affect your immigration status and make you ineligible for a commercial driver’s license (CDL).
Some of the factors that can impact your excessive speeding ticket fine include:
- The speed limit you were supposed to obey
- The actual speed you were driving
- The location of the speeding offense
- Previous driving record
In some cases, offenders may be sentenced to jail or face the suspension of their driver’s license in addition to paying fines. The penalties can also increase if a driver is cited for speeding in a construction zone or if they were speeding in a school zone.
One of the most significant consequences of excessive speeding tickets is that your car insurance rates can skyrocket. In addition to paying the fine, you may also find that your monthly premiums surge, and the damages extend long after you have paid the penalty.
What Can You Do If You Receive an Excessive Speeding Ticket in Mesa, Arizona?
Let’s be honest; receiving an excessive speeding ticket is not a pleasant experience. The best thing you can do when you receive a citation is to remain calm and not panic. You don’t have to take immediate action, but you shouldn’t ignore the ticket either.
Here are some steps that you can take if you receive an excessive speeding ticket in Mesa, Arizona:
1. Stay Calm: Receiving an excessive speeding ticket can be stressful, but it is important to remain calm and avoid any negative reactions or confrontations with law enforcement.
2. Check the Ticket for Accuracy: When you receive the ticket, ensure that all information is accurate, including your name, vehicle information, and the details of the violation.
3. Understand the Penalties: An excessive speeding ticket can result in significant fines, points on your license, and even license suspension, depending on the speed and other factors. Research the potential penalties to fully understand what you may be facing.
4. Contact an experienced Traffic Attorney like The Harding Firm: Consider contacting a skilled traffic attorney who is well-versed in Arizona traffic laws and can provide legal guidance on the possible outcomes you may face. They can advise you on the available options for contesting or reducing the charge, and help you navigate the legal process.
5. Appear in Court: If you decide to contest the ticket, you must make an appearance in court on the date stated on the ticket. Failure to appear can result in additional penalties.
6. Gather Evidence: Your attorney can help you gather evidence to build a strong defense. This can include witness statements, photos or videos, and any other relevant information that supports your case.
7. Negotiate with the Prosecutor: Your attorney can also attempt to negotiate with the prosecutor for a reduced charge or to have the case dismissed entirely.
8. Prepare for Trial: If the case goes to trial, your attorney can represent you in court and present a strong defense on your behalf.
9. Follow the Court Order: If you receive a reduced charge or other penalty, ensure that you follow the court’s order to avoid any further legal issues.
Understand the charges
It is also essential to understand the specific traffic offenses you’re being charged with. For example, if you’re facing a fine for going over the speed limit in a construction zone, it may be different than exceeding the speed limit in a regular zone.
It’s worth noting that if you believe you were wrongly accused, you can contest the ticket in court.
Talk to an experienced traffic citation attorney
If you don’t fully understand the charges or don’t know what to do next, consult with an experienced traffic lawyer in Mesa, Arizona, like The Harding Firm. These professionals have the expertise to help you navigate the legal system and guide you on the best course of action.
In conclusion, excessive speeding ticket fines can be scary and overwhelming. However, there are things you can do to mitigate the fines and steps you can take to protect your driving record. The most crucial thing to remember is that you don’t have to face this alone; there are professionals on hand to assist you in navigating the complex legal system. With the right representation from The Harding Firm, you can fight an excessive ticket and walk away with a clearer understanding of your rights and the charges you’re facing.
Remember that each case is unique, and it’s essential to have the right legal guidance to increase your chances of success in disputing excessive speeding tickets. The Harding Firm in Mesa, Arizona, has experienced attorneys who understand the intricacies of Arizona’s traffic laws and can help you make an informed decision on how to proceed.
Keep in mind that the best way to avoid excessive speeding tickets is to follow all traffic laws and drive responsibly. However, if you do find yourself in the unfortunate situation of receiving an excessive speeding ticket, don’t hesitate to seek legal advice from a reputable law firm like The Harding Firm.
By working with skilled attorneys, you’ll be better equipped to navigate the legal process, potentially reducing the impact of an excessive speeding ticket on your driving record and insurance premiums. Don’t let one speeding ticket derail your life; take control of the situation with the help of The Harding Firm in Mesa, Arizona.