Did you get your speeding ticket in Kansas City? You’re not alone. Everyday drivers get pulled over. In a matter of seconds you can go from a driver to a ticketed driver and finally a broken driver—all for a little speeding. But the ticket you receive represents more than just your money. In Missouri, traffic tickets can bring damaging change. They can negatively impact your license status, insurance payments, and possibly your job. If you don’t know what to do or feel on your own, you are not alone. A Missouri traffic ticket attorney can help you.
Why One Ticket Can Create Big Problems
Our first thought when we receive a speeding ticket is that it is just a small minor traffic violation, pay it, and forget it. That may be considered irresponsible, especially in Missouri. Here is why.
Points on Your Driving Record
With every ticket received in Missouri, added points are placed on your driving record, affecting your ability to keep driving privileges. Accumulating excessive points can result in the loss of your license. If you get at least 8 points in an 18 month period your license could be suspended.
Higher Insurance Rates
Insurance companies actively check your record regularly. A speeding ticket means you must be viewed as an elevated risk. Higher bills may show up in the mail each month.
More Time in Court
Some speeding tickets may require a court date. If you must go to court, that will take time away from work or babysitting. That time away from normal life will add their own stress.
Even More Grave for Commercial Drivers
If you drive for a living, then a speeding ticket may take away your job. The CDL industry is very strict, and even a small traffic ticket can wreak harm on your employment future.
How a Missouri Traffic Ticket Attorney Can Help You
More importantly, you don’t have to go through this alone. An attorney can handle the more complex processes on behalf of you. The attorney will navigate through the process for you and represent your needs.This is what a good lawyer does:
- Check your ticket for errors.
- Finds ways to reduce or drop charges.
- Helps you keep points off your record.
- Works to keep your insurance down.
- Usually goes to court so you do not have to.
Most people who hire a lawyer usually pay less overall.
Important Missouri Speeding Laws
Missouri is serious about speeding. Here are some important things you should know:
Speeding in Construction Zones Costs You More
Fines double if caught speeding in the work zone.
Going More Than 20 Over Counts as Reckless Driving
If you speed by 20 or more over the limit, you could be charged with reckless driving.
Each City May Have its Own Rules
Kansas City may have some city rules that are more strict than state law.
If you do not know about these rules, then you can make matters worse by either paying the fine or going to court and not being prepared.
You Should Never Ignore a Ticket
Some people take the attitude that they will just wait for the process to run its course. This is not a good strategy. If you ignore a ticket:
- A judge may suspend your license.
- You may also be required to pay more fines later.
- You could even be arrested if you do not show for court.
You should always take a speeding ticket seriously.
Why Use a Local Kansas City Attorney
Kansas City is situated on the state line. Part of it is in Kansas and part of it is in Missouri. Each jurisdiction has its own rules. If your traffic ticket is from Mo, pick a Missouri Traffic Ticket Attorney. Local attorneys are familiar with the judges, the clerks and the process. Thereby, it allows them to develop your case more quickly and more effectively.
What Do You Do Immediately Following a Ticket?
If you are pulled over, you will want to do the following:
- Be calm and courteous to the officer.
- Keep your hands where they can see them.
- Sign the ticket.
- Signing the ticket does not mean you are admitting guilt.
- Go home and carefully review the ticket.
- Once you have the ticket, write down what happened while your memory of the incident is still relative.
- Lastly, contact a Missouri traffic ticket lawyer.
Do not pay the fine before you obtain some advice.
Common Defenses For Speeding Tickets
Each case is different, but these are a few common defenses a lawyer may employ:
Defective Equipment
Radar detectors are susceptible to malfunction or improper use.
Wronged Identity
The officer may have stopped the wrong car.
No Signs
If there are no signs that mark the speed limit, you may have a case.
Errors on the ticket
If there is a wrong date or place on the ticket, it may be dismissed.
Can a lawyer always get your ticket dismissed?
Not all the time. But many tickets can be reduced to inattentive driving ticket, or a non-moving violation. So you will not have points. You may still have to pay a fine, but your record will remain intact. Even if dismissal is not possible, your lawyer can often limit the damage.
The Cost of Hiring a Lawyer
Many people become concerned about retaining an attorney. Be sure to consider the long-term. A lawyer can save you money by:
- Not allowing your insurance to increase.
- Not needing to miss work, or additional court dates.
- Not allowing your license to be suspended because that could affect your wages.
Many lawyers charge a flat rate. Some charge hourly. Always ask for the fee upfront.
Out-of-State Drivers
If you are visiting Missouri when you received the ticket, you still have to deal with it. If you simply ignore it, undoubtedly it will create problems for you in your home state. A local Missouri lawyer will hopefully be able to do everything Communicating with you only; no need to return to Missouri.
How long does a speeding ticket remain on your record?
In Missouri, tickets remain on your record for three (3) years. Of course, insurance companies may hold against you longer than that. This means that getting an experienced dui attorney in Kansas City to fight for you is smart.
When do you call your lawyer?
The best time to call a lawyer is immediately upon receipt of the ticket. The sooner you call a lawyer, the greater advantages you will be entitled to.
FAQs about speeding tickets in Kansas City, Missouri
1. Can I get my speeding ticket dismissed without going to court?
In some circumstances, perhaps. Your attorney may request a reset and will handle your case completely. You may not even need to appear.
2. What happens if I do not pay my speeding ticket?
Your license can be suspended. A warrant may also be issued for your arrest.
3. What is the point of my record and why does it matter?
Points could accumulate fast. Too many points could suspend your license or increase your insurance.
4. Is it worth fighting my speeding ticket if it is my first?
Yes. Even a single speeding ticket can increase your insurance. A clean record can provide you with savings.
5. Can my lawyer guarantee my ticket will be dismissed?
No lawyer can promise any results. However, having someone on your side increases your chances of success immensely.
