Originally posted on https://gomotors.net/blog/364/a-simple-guide-on-how-to-get-a-speeding-ticket-reduced/

Everyone dreads being pulled over and handed a speeding ticket. Not only is it shameful but it can be expensive too. Some insurance companies are lenient when you receive an infraction but some are not as forgiving. A speeding ticket could hike up your insurance rate by 34 percent. However, there is a way to get a speeding ticket reduced and lessen its financial damage–keep reading to find out.

How to Get a Speeding Ticket Reduced

While the best way to keep a speeding ticket off your record is to be a responsible driver, but it is possible to get it reduced to a non-moving violation. Here is everything you need to know about how to get a speeding ticket reduced.

Decide Which Plea to Take

First, decide which non-moving violation best fits your situation. These include illegal parking, driving without a seat belt, and driving with an expired registration. Please be advised that the facts determine the outcome of the court’s decision. If you have multiple driving offenses on your record, it will be very difficult for the judge to rule in your favor.

Prepare the Required Documents

Your speeding ticket will have everything you need to know, from your court date, county courthouse, to the courtroom you are assigned. Be sure to bring the original ticket, your driver’s license, and a copy of your driving record. Also, verify payment methods for the associated fines and court fees.

Negotiate a Settlement

Get to the courtroom early and wait to be called by the district attorney. You’ll only have a few moments to negotiate a settlement and explain why the speeding should be ticket reduced.

A plausible argument could be that you were driving slightly over the speeding limit, or you can discuss your clean driving record. Don’t plead guilty to the ticket because the prosecutor can use this against you. Say that you have a strong defense or that the charges can’t be proved.

Wait for the Judge’s Final Ruling

Even if the district attorney agrees your speeding ticket should be reduced, it is up to the judge to make the final decision to reduce the charge or not.

If the judge doesn’t agree to reduce the speeding ticket to a non-moving violation, be prepared to plead guilty to the original ticket and pay it or plead not guilty and to go trial.

Another option is to get a deferral. This means that if you are found guilty or plead guilty, the ticket will be deferred — not added to your driving record for up to a year.

If you don’t get another citation during this time frame, the ticket will be expunged from your driving record. Though, a deferral is not an easy fix. A district attorney must approve it and you will most likely have to pay a fee.

If you reside in Louisiana and don’t wish to explore your legal options, you can pay Louisiana tickets online.

Final Thoughts

If you get a speeding ticket, you have other options, it is possible to legally fight it.

Now that you know about how to get a speeding ticket reduced, don’t forget to share this blog post!