When you receive a traffic ticket, you’re faced with two main options: pay the fine or hire a traffic attorney to contest it. While paying the ticket might seem like the simpler and cheaper choice upfront, the long-term financial impact could be much greater than you realize. Here’s a breakdown of the cost comparison between hiring a traffic attorney and paying a ticket, along with the potential benefits of each.
1. Upfront Costs
- Paying the Ticket: The upfront cost of paying a traffic ticket can range anywhere from $50 to $500, depending on the severity of the violation. For example, a basic speeding ticket might be on the lower end, while a more serious offense, such as reckless driving, could be much higher.
- Hiring a Traffic Attorney: The cost of hiring a traffic attorney varies based on the complexity of the case, location, and attorney’s experience. In general, fees can range from $200 to $1,000. While this may seem expensive at first, it’s important to consider the long-term savings that hiring an attorney can bring.
2. Long-Term Financial Impact
- Paying the Ticket: When you pay a ticket, it’s not just the fine you’re dealing with. Paying a ticket usually results in points being added to your driving record. Accumulating points can lead to increased insurance premiums, often for several years. On average, insurance rates can increase by 20-30% for each violation, meaning you could be paying hundreds or even thousands of dollars more over time.
- Hiring a Traffic Attorney: An experienced traffic attorney may be able to get your ticket dismissed or reduced to a lesser charge. This helps you avoid points on your driving record, which can keep your insurance rates from rising. Over time, the money saved on insurance could far outweigh the cost of hiring an attorney.
3. Potential Consequences
- Paying the Ticket: In addition to higher insurance rates, paying a ticket can also lead to more severe consequences if you accumulate too many points. In some states, accumulating points could result in a suspended license, making it harder to commute or work, and potentially leading to additional legal issues and fees.
- Hiring a Traffic Attorney: By contesting the ticket, a traffic attorney can help you avoid points on your license and reduce the risk of long-term consequences like license suspension or higher insurance premiums. They also save you the hassle of dealing with the legal system and, in many cases, can represent you in court without requiring your presence.
4. Time and Convenience
- Paying the Ticket: While paying the fine may seem quick and convenient, it often means you’re accepting long-term consequences like higher insurance costs and points on your record.
- Hiring a Traffic Attorney: Though hiring an attorney may take some initial effort, they handle the majority of the legal process for you. In many cases, you won’t have to appear in court, saving you time and reducing stress.
This post was written by a professional at Ticket Shield. Ticket Shield understands that life can sometimes throw unexpected challenges your way. That’s why Ticket Shield is here to help you navigate through legal roadblocks when you need it most. Their team of experienced lawyers specializes in a range of traffic-related legal matters, ensuring you have the best defense possible. Types of teams available:
- Traffic Ticket Lawyer
- DUI Lawyer
- Speeding Ticket Lawyer
- Reckless Driving Lawyer
- Suspended License Lawyer
- Red Light Ticket Lawyer
- Stop Sign Ticket Lawyer
- Seat Belt Ticket Lawyer
Don’t let traffic tickets or driving-related charges weigh you down. Contact our Reckless Driving Lawyer in Broward County today for a free consultation, and let Ticket Shield be your shield in the legal arena. Your peace of mind is their priority!