When running late for something critical, people rush out the door and hurriedly drive to get to their destination as quickly as possible. The idea of receiving a costly Missouri speeding ticket isn’t something most consider; the thought process is entirely on getting where they need to go.
When motorists fail to adhere to posted speed limit signs, Missouri law enforcement will issue speeding tickets. The only way to avoid the citation is if a legitimate emergency can be confirmed. In most situations, such as when running late for work, the officer will likely have little sympathy.
A speeding ticket or multiple warrants seeking guidance from an attorney to help work through fines, insurance increases, and points added to your license. In Missouri, citations are not something to handle without legal assistance, especially if other violations are on your record.
The last thing you want is to put your driving license at risk. A reputable Missouri attorney like Scott Pierson can potentially have your speeding ticket dismissed after working through the intricacies of your case.
The Costs and Other Considerations Involved with Missouri Speeding Tickets
In Missouri, speeding tickets are costly, with fines scale based on how fast you were driving. The higher the speed, the more expensive the fine.
The “Missouri State Fine Collection Center” indicates fines can start at roughly $83 when traveling at a range of 1-5 miles above the posted limit. The approximate scale is as follows:
- Exceeding the posted speed by 1 – 5 mph: $83
- Exceeding the posted speed by 6 – 10 mph: $99
- Exceeding the posted speed by 11 – 15 mph: $124
- Exceeding the posted speed by 16 – 19 mph: $149
- Exceeding the posted speed by 20 – 25 mph: $224
Considering the costs, along with insurance and license repercussions, it’s in a motorist’s best interests to pursue legal counsel to contest the citation. This can be critical if you have other violations that could lead to your licenses being suspended or revoked.
The investment in a qualified attorney can ultimately save much hardship and expenses, especially if the case is sent to court, particularly since many motorists are unfamiliar with traffic laws.
Three points are attached to your record when the Highway Patrol issues a speeding ticket. Two points go on the record when found guilty of a municipal speeding offense.
A motorist accumulating four points within a 12-month period will receive an advisory letter from the Missouri Department of Revenue. A driving license will be suspended for 30 days when 8+ points accumulate over an 18-month period. Drivers often don’t pay attention to their speed until they’re pulled over.
Accumulating points and losing your license can happen in the blink. A lawyer specializing in traffic law is a critical resource in guiding you through the speeding ticket process. Why should you consider hiring a traffic lawyer when you get a speeding ticket in Missouri? Let’s review.
Hiring A Traffic Lawyer for a Missouri Speeding Citation
Missouri traffic lawyers do due diligence in helping clients contest charges associated with speeding tickets. It’s not always necessary to seek legal counsel, but many situations warrant hiring the professional. A traffic ticket has many facets that impact motorists.
It may seem wise to simply pay the fine for a first-time minor violation and move forward; however, it’s important to consider the impact on your driving record and the potential for receiving another citation.
A quality traffic lawyer is a valuable resource to help contest speeding violations. Fighting citations is wise in many situations, such as:
- Accumulating multiple violations over a brief period with the possibility of license suspension or revocation
- The potential for insurance rate increases
- It’s essential to maintain a clean driving record
A lawyer specializing in Missouri traffic law will explain your options, whether your first violation or multiple citations. In their capacity, the professional can negotiate to amend the ticket to a non-moving violation. A speeding ticket is more than a mere inconvenience.
The repercussions with your driving record, insurance rates, and the expenses can be extensive. An experienced traffic lawyer will work to help you avoid these consequences. Here are the benefits you can expect when hiring a quality, reputable traffic lawyer in Missouri after receiving a speeding ticket.
Legal counseling
A lawyer specializing in Missouri traffic law offers legal advice on these laws, including those that apply to your circumstances. The lawyer’s guidance is valuable in determining how to move forward with the citation.
Working with a skilled attorney can assure you of a greater possibility for a positive outcome. Go here for advice from traffic lawyers for Missourians.
Court appearance
The traffic attorney appears in court on their client’s behalf for minor traffic violations. This will allow you to avoid the hassles of attending court and reduce the associated stress.
Driving record impact
A driving record is critical to other aspects of your life, such as employment. Jobs that require driving will review your record to determine your eligibility.
Your license can be suspended or revoked when you have a poor record and continue to receive violations. A reputable attorney will work vigilantly to protect your driving record.
Insurance premium
Speeding tickets, particularly several or severe citations, will label you as a high-risk motorist. Before an insurance carrier will issue a premium quote, they will assess your driving record. A driver with one violation will see higher rates than those with a clean history.
A trusted traffic attorney may be able to assist with keeping your record clean, allowing insurance carriers to quote reasonable rates.
Working With a Reputable Traffic Attorney
Traffic tickets may initially prove to be an inconvenience, but they can come with some severe and expensive consequences. It’s important to understand that law enforcement and the court system have an obligation to protect the public by keeping the roadways safe.
The repercussions posed to motorists are meant to keep them aware of their responsibility as drivers. When receiving a traffic violation, an excellent way to speak to the court of your respect for the system and the awareness and seriousness you take as a driver. When hiring a Missouri traffic lawyer as your representative, you can expect:
Consultation
The professional will assess the case and explain the options available to you. Many variables will determine the case’s success, including the circumstances surrounding the violation, speed, location, and other details the lawyer may find pertinent.
Evidence collection
With severe citations that include accidents or DWI, the attorney will require evidence to support the case, such as police reports and witness accounts, photos/videos of the site, and other records.
Negotiation
The attorney and prosecutor will work together to negotiate a plea or settlement if the case facts warrant this possibility.
Court appearance
When a negotiation is impossible or a settlement cannot be reached, the attorney will represent the case in court.
Final Thought
A speeding violation in Missouri can overwhelm and stress motorists, tempting them to impulsively plead guilty and pay the fine so they can move forward with little hassle. Considering how this will impact you in the long term is critical.
An attorney specializing in Missouri’s traffic laws can help protect your rights. The professional will ensure you’re prepared to contest the citation and provide representation in the legal process.
