How to Dispute a Speeding Ticket

Watch your speed to avoid a moving violation.

Everyone who receives a speeding ticket has the legal right to dispute the ticket in court--a right that many ticketed drivers opt for in hopes of having the citation dismissed or reduced. In addition to eliminating the fine associated with speeding tickets, winning a dispute will prevent the ticket from affecting the points on your car insurance policy. Each driving violation you incur increases the points on your insurance, leading to a significantly higher car insurance premium.

Instructions

1. Review the speeding ticket carefully to make sure you understand the offense and the fine. If there are any inaccuracies on the ticket--such as the make and model of your car, the road where the infraction occurred or the type of violation, make note of it for the court date. Such discrepancies will often result in the ticket being dismissed immediately.

2. Sign the ticket and signify that you want to dispute the charges in court by filling out the applicable fields. Mail the ticket promptly so you don't miss the deadline for appealing the charge.

3. Go to court at the stated date and time to dispute your ticket in front of a judge. Be prepared to tell the judge why you are appealing the ticket and to offer evidence on your behalf. Although it isn't required, you may wish to secure legal representation to help you win the dispute in court.

4. Ask the judge to dismiss the case if the ticketing officer fails to appear in court. Do not accept the prosecution's request for a continuance.

References

• The 'Lectric Law Library: Some Basic Traffic Law Information
• MSN Money: "It Pays to Avoid a Speeding Ticket"