What’s Next: I Got a Traffic Ticket
Introducing our “What’s Next?” series on the blog, for when you’re in new territory and need to know what happens next, what your options are, and how you can get help navigating the process.
Have you received a traffic ticket in Emporia, Cottonwood Falls, Junction City or elsewhere in Kansas? Are you wondering how serious this driving infraction is – or what your next move should be?
Here’s a quick overview of traffic tickets in Kansas, a resource for drivers seeking information and guidance on what their options are.
Types of Traffic Violations
Kansas law encompasses a wide range of traffic infractions, from minor parking violations to serious offenses like reckless driving.
Common violations include:
· Speeding
· Failure to Stop at a Stop Sign
· Failure to Yield
· Driving Without Insurance
· Driving Under the Influence (DUI)
The severity of the violation will determine consequences, which might include fines, impacts on driving records, and potential license suspension.
Options for Addressing a Traffic Ticket
Drivers who receive a traffic ticket in Kansas typically have several options:
1. Pay the Fine: Paying a fine is an admission of guilt and will likely result in the violation being recorded on the driver's record, potentially leading to increased insurance premiums.
2. Contest the Ticket: Drivers who believe they are not guilty or have a valid defense might choose to contest the ticket in court. Hiring a lawyer can be highly beneficial in navigating the legal process and pursuing a reduction or dismissal of charges. An attorney who knows that specific court, those prosecutors, and the standard operating procedures for that jurisdiction could help the driver get the best outcome possible.
3. Negotiate a Better Deal: In some cases, legal counsel might be able to negotiate with the prosecuting attorney to reduce the charge to a non-moving violation — or pursue a diversion (which is a contract with the prosecutor to dismiss the case if the driver doesn’t commit further violations within a certain amount of time, usually 6-12 months). This option can help minimize the impact on the driver's record and insurance costs.
Moving Violations and License Suspension
It’s crucial for drivers to understand the implications of moving violations on their driving privileges. Kansas doesn’t use a points system for traffic violations like some other states do. Instead, the state focuses on the number of moving violations a driver accumulates within a 12-month period. Three or more moving violations within a year might result in license suspension.
When to Seek Legal Counsel
While some traffic tickets can be handled individually, there are certain situations when seeking legal counsel is strongly recommended:
· Serious traffic violations, like DUI or reckless driving
· Multiple moving violations within a 12-month period
· Disputes regarding the validity of the ticket or the circumstances surrounding the violation
· Unfamiliarity with legal procedures or a desire for expert guidance
Let Us Help
At Harvest Legal, we provide experienced legal representation and guidance for drivers facing traffic tickets in Kansas. We can help you understand your rights, explore your options, and work toward achieving the best possible outcome for your case. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.