Receiving a speeding ticket in Georgia can be a stressful experience, especially if you believe you were ticketed in error, or feel you do not deserve it. While there are many common excuses drivers use to contest their speeding tickets, the chances of having a ticket dismissed solely based on these excuses are slim. This article explores common excuses and highlights the importance of hiring an experienced attorney to help you navigate the legal process and potentially get your ticket dismissed or reduced.
Common Speeding Ticket “Excuses
1. Keeping Up with Traffic
“I was just keeping up with the flow of traffic; everyone drives so fast in Georgia!” This is one of the most common excuses drivers use. However, this argument rarely holds up in court. Traffic laws are based on individual responsibility, and just because other drivers are speeding does not exempt you from following the speed limit.
2. Radar/Laser Error
“I was in a pack of cars, and the officer’s radar/laser gun must have read another vehicle’s speed, not mine.” While radar and laser guns are generally accurate, they are not infallible. However, proving that the officer’s equipment targeted another vehicle instead of yours can be challenging without proper legal expertise.
3. Emergency Situations
“My young child was sick, and we had to get to a rest stop fast.” Emergencies, such as a sick child, are understandable reasons for speeding, but they do not automatically absolve you of responsibility. Courts typically require documentation or evidence of the emergency, and even then, it may not guarantee a dismissal.
4. Urgent Personal Needs
“I needed to go to the restroom and was speeding to get there.” Similar to other personal emergencies, the need to use the restroom is a common excuse. While it may be a legitimate reason for speeding, it is unlikely to be sufficient to dismiss a ticket without additional circumstances.
5. Emotional Distress
“I was on my way to a funeral and grieving, which is why I was speeding.” Emotional distress can impact your driving, but it does not excuse breaking traffic laws. Courts may sympathize with your situation, but they still prioritize road safety.
6. Cruise Control Issues
“My cruise control was set to a lower speed, but I was clocked at a higher speed!” This excuse suggests a malfunction in your vehicle’s cruise control system. However, proving this without mechanical evidence is difficult, and courts may view it as an unreliable defense.
7. Equipment Calibration
“I did not ask whether the officer’s laser/radar device had been calibrated.” The accuracy of radar and laser devices depends on regular calibration. However, without legal assistance, challenging the calibration and maintenance records of the officer’s equipment is complex.
8. Errors on the Ticket
“The officer spelled my name wrong or had incorrect information on the ticket.” Minor errors on a ticket, such as misspellings or incorrect details, do not typically lead to dismissal. Courts usually view these as clerical mistakes that do not affect the validity of the ticket.
While there are extenuating circumstances that may cause you to become a Georgia Super Speeder, don’t bet on a Judge or a solicitor excusing you or dismissing your speeding ticket for any of the above reasons. Our Georgia Speeding Ticket Lawyers work to get the ticket and points reduced no matter what the circumstances that led to your speeding ticket.
The Role of an Attorney in Contesting Speeding Tickets
Given the limited success of common excuses, seeking the assistance of an experienced traffic attorney is crucial. Here’s how a Georgia attorney can help you with your speeding ticket:
Legal Experience
Traffic attorneys have extensive knowledge of traffic laws and court procedures. They understand the nuances of the legal system and can identify potential weaknesses in the prosecution’s case.
Negotiation Skills
Experienced attorneys are skilled negotiators. They can negotiate with prosecutors to reduce the charges or penalties associated with your speeding ticket. This could result in lower fewer points on your license, a reduction of the violation, or even dismissal of the ticket.
Representation in Court
Having a traffic attorney represent you in court in Georgia can significantly increase your chances of a favorable outcome. They can present your case effectively, cross-examine witnesses, and challenge the prosecution’s evidence.
Legal Strategies
Attorneys can employ various legal strategies to defend you. This might include questioning the accuracy of the speed measurement, arguing procedural errors, or demonstrating mitigating circumstances that justify a reduced penalty.
Peace of Mind
Navigating the legal system on your own can be daunting. An attorney provides guidance and support throughout the process, helping you understand your rights and options.
Summary
Receiving a speeding ticket in Georgia can be a daunting experience, but you don’t have to face it alone. While common excuses may not be enough to dismiss your ticket, hiring an experienced traffic attorney can significantly improve your chances of a favorable outcome. Attorneys provide legal experience, gather crucial evidence, negotiate on your behalf, and represent you in court. If you’ve received a speeding ticket, contact a knowledgeable Georgia traffic attorney today for a free consultation and to learn more about your rights and options.
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