Traffic Ticket Tip: Utah Defense Attorney Tip of the Week

Traffic tickets can be a frustrating and costly inconvenience. Not only do they often result in a fine, but they can also cause your insurance rates to go up. However, if you get pulled over and receive a traffic ticket, there are some do’s and don’ts you should keep in mind when speaking with the officer.

Do:

Be polite and respectful to the officer: It’s important to remain calm and receptive when you’re pulled over. Being rude or confrontational can make the situation worse for everyone involved. Remember that the officer is just doing their job and that they have the authority to issue you a ticket.

Don’t:

Argue with the officer: Avoid starting an argument or being overly confrontational. This may result in additional charges, and typically never works in favor of the person on the receiving end of a ticket.

Do:

Ask questions: If you’re unsure why you were pulled over, it’s okay to ask the officer for clarification. You can ask for specifics about the violation, the penalty, and any other relevant details that can help you better understand where they are coming from.

Don’t:

Admit guilt: When you’re pulled over, don’t admit guilt or apologize for the violation. It is best to ask the officer questions, and avoid admitting guilt in case you plan to fight the ticket. Anything you say can be used against you in court, so it’s best to remain neutral.

Do:

Gather information: Take note of the officer’s name, badge number, and patrol car number. You should also write down the date, time, and location of the incident. This information may be helpful if you decide to contest the ticket.

Don’t:

Lie: Lying to the officer or the court can have serious consequences. If you’re caught lying, it can damage your credibility and make it harder to contest the ticket. Perjury is considered a felony in the state of Utah, so be certain to make sure your account of the events is true and accurate.

Do:

Pay the ticket on time: If you decide to pay the ticket, make sure you do so on time. Failing to pay on time can result in additional fines and even a warrant for your arrest. If you are unable to pay the ticket, there are many options like extensions, payment plans, or even reductions that the court has the power to decide on if need be.

Don’t:

Ignore the ticket: Ignoring the ticket won’t make it go away. In fact, failing to respond to the ticket can result in a warrant for your arrest or even higher fines. Paying the ticket as soon as possible is your best course of action in order to avoid further penalties, unless you plan to appear in court to fight the ticket.

If you’re unsure about anything related to your ticket, you can always set up an appointment with an attorney at Intermountain Legal for your first consultation.