If you just received a speeding ticket, you may be worried about the consequences you’re facing. The good news is that in many states, you can’t lose your driver’s license for a first, and often even a second or third speeding ticket. There are some things you should know, however, as every situation is unique.
Being a Minor Comes with Different Rules
In many states, there are different rules that apply to minors. If you are under the age of 18 and receive one or two speeding tickets, age could be the reason you lose your privilege to drive. Again, this is dependent on the state in which you live, so it’s important you speak with a lawyer who understands traffic violations and the consequences for minors.
A Criminal Offense May Complicate the Issue
Even if this is your first speeding ticket, you could lose your privilege to drive if it is accompanied by a criminal offense. For example, if your speeding charge includes reckless driving, DUI, or a hit-and-run, your driver’s license privileges may be on the line. It’s also possible if you have previous moving violation convictions within a certain time period, your privileges will be lost. For example, perhaps you have three speeding tickets in the last three years. A judge may revoke your license for exceeding the allotted amount in the allotted time period.
You Can Fight the Ticket
If you are faced with the chance you could lose your driver’s license, you may choose to fight the speeding ticket. It’s often best to enlist the help of a traffic ticket lawyer, as they know the ins and outs of situations similar to yours.
If you have a good reason not to fight the ticket, there’s still a chance you can avoid losing your license. In most cases, you can’t have your license revoked until you have a hearing with a hearing officer. During that hearing, you can respectfully explain why you shouldn’t lose your license, as well as give the reasons for not fighting the ticket. If you have a compelling reason for needing to keep your license, such as the fact driving is your job, or a loved one relies on you for transportation to and from medical appointments, the hearing officer may be more inclined to let you keep the license.
Contacting a Lawyer
When you’re faced with the chance of losing your driving privileges because of a speeding ticket, you don’t have to deal with it on your own. Contact a lawyer, like a traffic defense lawyer from May Law, LLP, today to learn what you can do to keep your driving privileges.
