Contesting Your Traffic Citation During a Car Accident

 Posted on December 29, 2023 in Criminal Defense

Traffic tickets happen, but sometimes they can happen unfairly during a car accident. You still have options to dispute unfair or inaccurate citations. It is essential to know that you do not have to just be silent if you receive an unfair ticket. You have rights, and an Illinois criminal defense lawyer can help you figure out how to fight for your rights with this ticket.

Respond Quickly

After receiving any traffic summons, immediately review the court date printed on the ticket. Mark calendars to ensure you attend this hearing or contact the court beforehand. Missing the initial court date almost automatically requires paying fines. Contest the violation early to avoid limiting options later.

Gather Case Materials

Next, compile evidence to refute the traffic allegations against you. Gather photos/videos documenting road conditions, witness statements, police reports, driving records printouts, or other relevant materials. If tickets often lack intricate details, build your evidence trail to reveal actual events more clearly. Any documentation weakening officers’ claims or strengthening your defense helps achieve ticket dismissal.

State Your Defense

Then, upon your court date, reveal reasons why citations appear legally or factually unjustified. Possible defensive arguments include:

• You were not the driver cited
• Signs and warnings were visually obstructions
• Equipment issues occurred beyond your control
• Weather impacted the ability to stop safely
• Confusing signage led to misunderstandings

Casting reasonable doubt over allegations or justification for issuing citations may sway courts to dismiss cases. Rehearse persuasive explanations beforehand for the best delivery and reception.

Attempt Plea Agreements

If contesting tickets entirely fails, negotiating plea deals provides another option. Offer to attend defensive driving for ticket dismissal. For multiple recent citations, ask prosecutors about agreements bundling all violations under one reduced lead infraction while waiving others. This avoids independent fines and driver’s license points accumulating across each. Multi-pronged strategies give motorists tools, making tickets less damaging.

Contact a Cook County, IL Criminal Defense Lawyer

Traffic violations feel frustrating, but you should know that viable options exist to fight back. While there is no guarantee to resolve your ticket issue, it is worth fighting for your rights. You do not deserve to have an unfair ticket. If you have proof, a Skokie, IL criminal defense attorney can work on your case to see what may be possible. Call The Law Offices of Matthew R. Gebhardt, P.C. at 847-239-4703 for a free consultation to see what options you may have.