Do You Have A Traffic Offense Question?

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     Only seven states in the nation give more speeding tickets than North Carolina and most of these states have larger populations. Tickets can be given for everything from improper equipment to reckless driving. There are two basic types of traffic tickets given in North Carolina based upon the seriousness of the conduct: infractions and misdemeanors.

     Infractions are mere violations of highway statutes governing how people should drive on public roads. Examples of infractions are: speeding less than 15 miles per hour over the posted speed limit; driving too fast for conditions; running a red light. Traffic infractions are fairly simple matters in and of themselves. They need to be handled quickly as failure to pay the fine or appear to fight the ticket can result in suspension of your license. They can often be negotiated down to a lesser offense that carries no “points” and a smaller fine. You can ask for a trial on such matters or you can simply pay the fine and never have to attend court. However, doing the latter may well increase your insurance premiums in certain situations.

     The other type of ticket given in North Carolina is a misdemeanor ticket and is more serious than infractions and, hence, more difficult to deal with in court. These are actual crimes that could possibly lead to jail time. Misdemeanor tickets include tickets for such things as speeding more than 15 miles per hour over the posted speed limit, driving faster than 80 miles per hour regardless of the posted speed limit, or reckless driving.

     These misdemeanor tickets require far more from you than mere infractions do. You or an attorney you have designated to represent you in the matter must show at court. You may not merely pay a fine and go about your way. These charges, if not successfully dealt with by you or your attorney, actually appearing at court could actually lead to a loss or suspension of your license. They require the attention of an experienced traffic attorney.

     At Merritt Flebotte, we have a number of experienced traffic attorneys waiting to help you deal with your traffic ticket. Simply give us a call.