Drivers in New Jersey should be careful. The New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission (NJMVC) awards drivers points when they violate a traffic rule. The number of points awarded will depend on the violation. For instance, moving against traffic awards two points, and racing on highways gives 5 points. Traffic points can accumulate quickly, leading to more consequences, including license suspension.
Thus, you should be informed when you have a traffic ticket. Here are three mistakes to avoid.
Not contesting the ticket
Pleading guilty and paying a ticket may seem like the easiest way out, but it’s not. When you pay a ticket, the charge and points will go on your record. For this reason, it will help to fight your ticket to reduce points or eliminate them. Examples of potential defense strategies include:
- Proving you didn’t violate the law in question
- Challenging the police officer’s opinion
- Arguing the violation was a mistake of fact
Not reading your ticket
When the police give you the ticket, don’t put it away. Read it to understand every detail. This can help you understand the violation in-depth and spot a mistake sooner.
Ignoring your ticket
You should not put your ticket in the glove compartment and act as if nothing happened. You should take action sooner rather than later. Gather adequate information about your case to determine the most suitable defense strategy. Ignoring your ticket will not make it go away. In fact, it may lead to more penalties.
If you receive a traffic ticket, you can and should fight it. Experienced legal guidance can help you make the right moves.
