Getting a traffic ticket in Florida can be frustrating and costly, but you should not accept it without exploring your options. Whether it is a speeding ticket, running a red light, or another moving violation, paying the fine could result in points on your license, higher insurance rates, and long-term consequences. Fortunately, Florida law offers several ways to fight or resolve a traffic citation, from attending a traffic school to challenging the ticket in court.
As traffic ticket defense attorneys in Gainesville, FL, we have seen firsthand how traffic violations can impact a person’s driving record and future. Some violations carry serious penalties that can affect your employment and ability to drive legally. Understanding your options and taking the right steps can make a significant difference in your case.
In this blog, we will discuss common reasons for traffic tickets, your options, and the deadlines and considerations you must keep in mind. Do not let a ticket derail your driving record; know your rights and take action.
Common Reasons for Traffic Tickets in Florida
In 2024, nearly 3 million traffic tickets were issued in Florida. These tickets fall into three categories: criminal, non-criminal, and non-moving violations. Each category will have different consequences and required actions. Understanding these distinctions is critical when determining how to handle your citation.
- Criminal Traffic Violations: Criminal traffic violations are the most severe and can result in jail time, heavy fines, and license suspension. Examples include:
- Driving with a revoked license- Operating a vehicle without a valid license can lead to criminal charges.
- Reckless driving- this includes excessive speeding, aggressive driving, or engaging in dangerous road behavior.
If you are cited for a criminal traffic violation, you must appear in court. Having an experienced traffic ticket defense attorney is crucial to protecting your rights.
- Non-Criminal Traffic Violations: These offenses typically result in fines and points on your license but do not carry the risk of jail time. Common violations include:
- Red light camera violations-Failing to stop at a red light can lead to automatic fines.
- Speeding- The most common traffic offense, with penalties increasing based on how much you exceed the speed limit.
- Careless driving- This includes failure to yield, improper lane changes, and other risky behaviors.
- Non-Moving Violations: These are generally administrative infractions that do not involve the operation of a vehicle but can still lead to fines or other penalties. Examples include:
- Expired tags- Failure to renew your vehicle registration on time.
- No proof of insurance- Driving without valid insurance documentation.
- Not wearing a seatbelt- A common citation that can still result in fines.
What Are My Options After Receiving a Traffic Ticket?
The State of Florida gives several options for those given a traffic ticket. Depending on the type of violation, you may be able to reduce or eliminate penalties through the following methods:
- Pay the Fine
- You can pay the fine to the Clerk of the Court directly or online. However, you must show proof of compliance or complete a driver improvement course for certain violations. This is the simplest option but it is important to understand the consequences: Paying the fine for a moving violation typically results in points on your license, which can lead to increased insurance rates and other penalties.
- Contest the Citation in Court
- You have the right to fight your traffic ticket by requesting a hearing, typically within 30 days. A judge or hearing official will hear and review your case and determine whether you committed the offense. The court might impose penalties and points on your license if found guilty. However, a skilled traffic ticket attorney in Florida can help argue your case and potentially get the ticket dismissed or reduced.
- Attend a Driver Improvement Course
- For some non-criminal violations, completing a state-approved driver improvement course may reduce your fine by up to 18 percent and prevent points from being added to your license. Therefore, you maintain a clean driving record. This option is only available five times in your lifetime, so it should be used strategically.
What Violations Require a Mandatory Court Appearance?
Not all violations can be resolved by simply paying the fine and moving on. Criminal violations require a mandatory court appearance. If you are required to appear, you will receive a notice in the mail. Examples of violations that require court appearances include:
- Driving Under the Influence (DUI)
- Reckless Driving
- Speeding over 30 miles per hour over the posted limit
What Deadlines and Considerations Must You Consider?
Once a traffic ticket has been issued, Florida law requires you have 30 days to select an option to resolve the ticket. Failure to respond can have serious outcomes:
- Additional fines and fees
- The court might impose additional fees for non-compliance.
- Suspension of license
- Ignoring your ticket could lead to your driver’s license being suspended
For individuals with multiple traffic violations, accumulating too many points on your license within a certain period can lead to longer suspensions. Consulting a traffic ticket attorney in Florida can help you understand the best course of action to avoid serious consequences.
Have You Gotten a Ticket Recently? DeCarlis & Sawyer is Here to Help
Getting a traffic ticket is stressful, but you do not have to handle it alone. Whether you are dealing with a minor violation or a serious traffic offense, an experienced attorney can help protect your driving record and fight for the best possible outcome.
As trusted traffic ticket defense attorneys serving Gainesville FL, we have over 25 years of experience helping clients challenge traffic tickets and avoid unnecessary penalties. Our goal is to provide aggressive representation to minimize consequences and protect your rights.Call DeCarlis & Sawyer, Attorneys at Law today at (352) 371-3838 for 24/7 legal advice and a free consultation. Let us help you fight your ticket and keep your driving record clean!