Getting a speeding ticket can be a stressful and overwhelming experience. Not only can it result in points on your license, but it can also make insurance premiums increase. Rather than simply pay the ticket, which is effectively pleading guilty to the offense, it’s best to discuss your case with an experienced traffic ticket attorney who can advise you regarding the best course of action.

Here’s what to do after getting a speeding ticket in North Carolina:

1. Review the Details of the Ticket

The first thing you should do after getting a speeding ticket is review the ticket carefully. It contains important information regarding the offense and the actions you need to take. Specifically, the citation will tell you:

• The exact charges against you
• The amount over the limit you were speeding
• Officer information
• Vehicle information
• The court date
• Whether you need to appear in court

2. Act Quickly

When considering what to do after getting a speeding ticket, it’s essential to act quickly. Ignoring the ticket can result in unintended consequences. Failure to take action within the necessary time frame could result in an additional “failure to appear” fine, license suspension, and the costs associated with having your license restored. It’s best to contact a knowledgeable traffic ticket attorney as soon as possible. They will know the applicable deadlines and actions to take in your case.

3. Understand the Consequences of the Ticket Based on Your Specific Situation

A speeding ticket can have a serious impact on your life and livelihood, depending on your specific circumstances. In addition to monetary fines and insurance hikes, you could also lose your driving privileges. Critically, if you accumulate 12 or more points on your license within a three year period (or eight points within three years following a reinstatement), your license can be suspended. While driving more than 15 miles per hour over the speed limit and over 55 miles an hour can result in a suspension of 30 days to a year, repeated offenses can lead to longer suspensions.

Criminal Consequences

In some cases, a speeding ticket can also be a criminal offense. For instance, if you were driving over 80 miles per hour in a lower speed zone or more than 15 miles per hour over the limit, you could be charged with excessive speeding. This is not only a traffic infraction, but a Class 3 misdemeanor in North Carolina. Penalties can include one to 20 days in jail, along with license suspension and a criminal record.

CDL Holder Consequences

If you are a CDL holder, you can face even more severe consequences for speeding, even in a personal vehicle. A conviction of two “serious” violations within a three-year period can trigger a 60-day license suspension. Many employers also have a zero tolerance policy, which could potentially impact your ability to continue driving for your livelihood.

4. Consult with a Traffic Ticket Attorney

A skilled attorney can best advise you what to do after getting a speeding ticket. Before you decide to pay the fine and plead guilty, it’s important to be aware of the defenses that may be available to you, based on the facts of your case. A traffic ticket attorney can explore your options with you and mount a solid defense. In most cases involving speeding offenses, it is well worth the cost of hiring a traffic ticket attorney in light of the potential fines, insurance premium increases, and points that you may incur on your license.

5. Argue Your Case in Court

Once you have retained a traffic ticket attorney, they can argue your case in court on your behalf. They can identify procedural errors in your case or discrepancies on the ticket, challenge evidence, and negotiate with the prosecutor for reduced charges. They may also be able to raise evidence that your speeding was due to an emergency or extenuating circumstance in order to request leniency, if applicable.

Contact an Experienced North Carolina Traffic Ticket Attorney

If you are wondering what to do after getting a speeding ticket, an experienced attorney can guide you every step of the way. The Johnston County traffic ticket attorneys at Reece & Reece, Attorneys at Law are committed to providing trusted representation and aggressive advocacy to clients facing speeding infractions and other traffic violations in North Carolina. Call (919) 300-1249 or contact us online to schedule a consultation and learn how we can help.