How to Reduce Texas DOT Fines

A fine for running a red light can be contested in traffic court.

The Texas Department of Transportation oversees the Department of Motor Vehicles and the Department of Public Safety. These two sub departments assign fines for failure to maintain vehicle registration, driving without a license, speeding tickets and other moving violations. In some cases, fines may be reduced by obtaining vehicle registration or a license within a short window of time or by requesting a driver safety course related to your moving violation. A Driver Safety course will reduce the fine and even dismiss the ticket from your record.

Instructions

1. Assess the violation. If you have received a violation for driving without a license, insurance or maintaining vehicle registration and inspection, you may be able to have your ticket dismissed if you obtain the required documents before the court date. Call the court to request information about dismissing your ticket.

2. Request a driver safety course dismissal related to your violation when you appear at the window at the courthouse. Texas offers three driver safety courses: Driving Safety Course, Motorcycle Operator Training Course Dismissal or Specialized Driving Safety Course for Instruction in the Proper Use of Child Passenger Safety Seat Systems. Request the safety course related to your violation. A court fee will apply for taking this option. The driver safety course will require a separate fee, which can vary depending on the course you take. There are several privately run driver safety courses in the state of Texas. Ask the agent at the court window for a recommendation.

3. Plead "Not Guilty." A plea of not guilty will require you to set a separate court date and make an argument before the judge to dismiss your case. Traffic violators can opt to defend themselves or hire an attorney. If you believe you are innocent, take measures to prove your innocence. Monitor the traffic light you were accused of running. Obtain a report from local police about the average speed of traffic at the time of day you were caught speeding (to show you were maintaining the flow of traffic). Tickets can be dismissed during non-guiilty plea court appearances if the issuing officer does not show up to court or if the ticket does not correctly document the conditions of the day.

References

• DMV.com: Traffic Tickets and Violations in Texas
• DMV.com: How to Pay a Traffic Ticket in Texas
• Harris County Justice of the Peace Courts: Information about Traffic Cases