When you get a speeding ticket, you have a choice: do you pay it, or do you fight it? You may think that just paying off your speeding ticket is the easiest way to deal with it, but this action serves as an admission of guilt that could have more repercussions than you think.
Before you pay off a speeding ticket, take a close look at the circumstances around it. Should you pay it off? Or would you rather go to court and fight it?
How to act in front of the officer
NerdWallet takes a look at what you can do if you get a speeding ticket. First, when pulled over by an officer, remain polite and unobtrusive. Try to keep yourself as unmemorable as possible so an officer may struggle to recall details if you decide to go to court later. Say as little as possible too, since what you say may end up used against you if you go to court.
As the officer how they determined your speed, i.e. what tool they used. Write this down later, after the officer leaves, along with other pertinent information like the time, date and location of the incident. Make note of any impacting factors as well, such as speed signs that might have visibility problems, such as a bush covering the majority of the sign.
What happens if you pay up?
If you pay the ticket, you could face numerous long-term repercussions. This includes skyrocketing insurance rates which could cost you hundreds or even thousands of dollars a year. You may even end up barred from applying for certain jobs or even traveling in some areas because a traffic ticket is still a criminal infraction on your record.
Consider contacting legal help if you decide to fight the ticket. They can help you prepare your case.
