With most traffic tickets in Oklahoma, a person’s natural inclination is simply to pay the ticket and move on. After all, you can just log in to the ticketing authority or municipality’s website, pay the ticket, and be done with it in a matter of minutes. Others may decide to show up for their court date and hope that the judge will lessen the fine or punishment, but the outcome is never a sure thing.
It’s worth emphasizing that any time you simply pay your fine, you’re pleading guilty to the charge. Minor violations like parking tickets are one thing, but if it’s anything beyond that, you should strongly consider getting a lawyer on your side. And there are plenty of reasons why.
A traffic ticket is not Just about fines
When you’re ticketed for something like speeding or running a stoplight, your first thought may be lamenting how much it’s going to cost you. That’s certainly understandable, but it’s not just about the fine. For example, pleading guilty and paying a reckless driving ticket can result in a six-month suspension of your license.
Tickets on your driving record can also affect you in the future if you’re pulled over, as the police officer may be swayed by your previous record and decide to issue a more severe citation or at least decline to take it down a classification level (such as writing you a ticket for your actual speed rather than keeping it under a certain amount to avoid a more serious charge and accompanying fine).
Employment
Jobs involving driving and transporting are more prevalent than ever, but many employers will refrain from hiring you if you have certain tickets on your driving record. In some cases, you may lose your current job, especially if your occupation requires a CDL.
Insurance
Car insurance companies always search your driving record before offering a quote. Whether you’re looking for new coverage or up for a policy renewal, traffic tickets on your record will result in higher premiums or even an outright denial of coverage.
How an Attorney Can Help
Even with a traffic ticket such as a speeding citation, you are innocent until proven guilty. You have a legal right to fight your ticket, and securing legal representation gives you the best chance of a favorable outcome.
When you hire an attorney on your side, you’re getting someone who knows all the intricacies of traffic laws in Oklahoma and also knows how to effectively navigate the court system. In many cases, your attorney can negotiate a deal on your behalf that can reduce your fine, reduce the severity of the charge, or, in some cases, even have it completely dismissed altogether. In the end, you stand a significantly higher chance of having your record and reputation protected, both now and into the future.
Don’t fight your Oklahoma traffic ticket alone
Experienced legal representation will make a substantial difference in the outcome of your traffic ticket. Overman Legal Group, PLLC is a uniquely modern criminal defense and civil law firm that provides personalized service through a team of dedicated and award-winning attorneys who will always utilize every last resource on your behalf when fighting your charges.
If you’re fighting a traffic ticket, get in touch with our team. We’ll give you a free consultation on how best to handle your particular traffic ticket situation. Don’t face your traffic charges alone. Align yourself with an experienced team of attorneys with extensive expertise in legal defense—and a proven record of success.
