Syracuse Traffic Ticket Lawyer

Do Not Plead Guilty to Traffic Tickets

In New York, pleading guilty by mail is the worst way to settle a traffic ticket. Pleading guilty eliminates your opportunity for a reduction and commits you to the consequences of the original charge. Most tickets issued in New York state are amenable to some type of reduction or dismissal, which you should take advantage of.

Pleading guilty with an "explanation" on the ticket will not allow the ticket to be altered or decreased. The only effect could be to keep the amount of the fine imposed by the judge within the legal range.

Consequences Add Up Fast

Information about a New York traffic charge is limited on the face of the ticket. As a result, many people are surprised by court penalties and surcharges, points, and other consequences. An experienced traffic lawyer can help you understand the ramifications and how to avoid them.

Out-Of-State Drivers

Because of information sharing between motor vehicle authorities in the United States and Canada, the ramifications of New York traffic penalties are often felt back in the driver's home state.

Some states regard out-of-state convictions as if they occurred in the driver's home state. In contrast, others transfer a specific number of points. Still, others do not include any points or convictions at all. Find out more about the rules that apply to out-of-state and Canadian drivers.

But no matter how the government treats a ticket, there is always the concern about insurance rates increases.

Higher Insurance Premiums

You should anticipate that your insurance company will learn of your conviction regardless of where you are licensed or received a ticket. Your insurance provider may raise your payments or cancel your coverage if they find out.

According to the insurance comparison website Zebra, a person insured by Allstate who paid $1,888 per year with a clean record but was convicted of speeding 11-15 mph over the limit would have to pay:

1. $2,280 in the first year,
2. $2,673 in the second year, and
3. $3,065 in the third year

For just one speeding ticket, that translates to a $2,300 increase. A ticket for a slower speed, such as 6-10 mph, costs around $2,250, $2,612, and $2,983. Zebra post.

DMV: Additional Penalties

The New York Department of Motor Vehicles will levy additional fines for multiple or specific traffic ticket convictions.

For example, any driver guilty of 6 or more points in 18 months will be charged $300 for the first 6 points and $75 for every point after that. This punishment applies to all drivers, regardless of the state of residence. According to our research, failure to pay these charges is a common reason for suspensions in New York and other states.

According to the legislation, pleading guilty to speeding 86 in a 65 mph zone will cost the motorist $300 from the NY DMV, up to $393 from the court, and the most expensive result of the conviction is increased insurance premiums. Learn more about NYS Driver responsibility assessments.

Being convicted is expensive. Given that the legal charge for most speeding citations is in the hundreds of dollars employing a traffic lawyer to reduce the impact of the ticket is a good idea.

Ask an Experienced Traffic Lawyer

The most straightforward approach to dealing with traffic citations in New York is to hire an expert traffic lawyer. While some tickets are not worth contesting, many can be lowered or dismissed. Never plead guilty to a traffic ticket unless you first know:

1. What are the ramifications of my current ticket?
2. What will happen to my ticket if I seek a reduction (i.e., "fight it")?
3. Will I have to appear in court?

We are well-known attorneys that have handled thousands of traffic violations throughout New York State. We are informed, approachable, and professional and are pleased to answer your inquiries for free.

Call for a Complimentary Case Evaluation

• Protect yourself from points, fines, and suspension.
• Eliminate court appearances in most cases.
• Save time and eliminate anxiety.

From our main office in Syracuse, New York we handle tickets in Syracuse, Onondaga County, and all over New York State. 

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