How to Get a Speeding Ticket Dismissed in South Carolina

No one wants to see those blue lights flashing in their rearview mirror, but it happens to the best of us. Unfortunately, law enforcement officers issue over 41 million speeding tickets in the U.S. every year.

If you’ve been caught speeding, you might be wondering what your options are.

The consequences of a speeding ticket can be severe, from points on your license to increased insurance premiums. However, with the right strategy, it’s possible to get your speeding ticket dismissed in court.

Weigh the Consequences of Paying vs. Fighting the Ticket

Before making a decision, consider the potential consequences of a guilty plea. In South Carolina, the penalties for speeding violations scale up based on how far over the posted limit you were driving.

Here’s a breakdown of the typical fines and points assessed:

• Going 1-10 mph over the speed limit: $15-25 fine, 2 points on your license
• Speeding between 11-25 mph over the limit: Up to $200 in fines, 4 points
• Exceeding the speed limit by 26-30 mph: Fines maxing out at $445, 6 points assessed

Accumulating too many points from speeding tickets can lead to license suspension and increased insurance rates. A moving violation can also impact job prospects, especially for those who drive for a living.

However, contesting a ticket requires time in court, presenting your case, and potentially hiring an attorney to handle it properly. Weigh the potential consequences carefully before deciding how to proceed.

Challenge The Ticket in Traffic Court

If you believe you were wrongfully cited or have a solid defense, you can request a court hearing to contest the speeding ticket. This involves presenting evidence and arguments before a judge or traffic commissioner to get the violation dismissed.

Common defenses include:

• Proving the radar gun or speedometer was inaccurate
• Challenging the officer’s probable cause for pulling you over
• Citing an emergency situation that necessitated temporarily speeding.
• Arguing that the officer made a mistake in identifying your vehicle or in recording your speed

You’ll need to make a compelling case backed by documentation, witness testimony, or other proof.

Sometimes, it may be beneficial to work out a plea agreement with the prosecution. In exchange for a lower fine or no points on your license, you might agree to plead guilty to a lesser charge, like a non-moving violation.

Consult a South Carolina Traffic Lawyer

For more serious speeding violations or cases where you’re unsure of the best course of action, it’s wise to consult an experienced South Carolina traffic lawyer. An attorney can provide invaluable guidance and representation.

Here’s what they can do for you:

• Evaluate the details of your ticket and honestly assess your chances of beating it in court
• Explain the relevant laws and proper legal procedures in plain English
• Handle the entire court process from start to finish if you contest the ticket
• Put together a strategic defense and make legal arguments to sway the judge
• Question the officer’s testimony and analyze any evidence
• Explore options like deferral programs or defensive driving classes to get violations dismissed
• Ensure your rights are fully protected throughout the ordeal

Sure, hiring a lawyer costs some cash upfront. But compared to the nightmare of increased insurance rates and a crappy driving record from a conviction, their fee could easily be the smaller upfront bill. For serious speeding cases, a lawyer is your ace in the hole.

Don’t Just Pay Speeding Tickets – Call Okoye Law

If you receive a questionable speeding ticket, don’t just pay the fine and accept higher insurance rates. Fight back and protect your driving record. Utilize the strategies above to build your case, and seek experienced legal representation to have your citation dismissed.

At Okoye Law, our traffic ticket defense lawyers have an impressive record of reducing charges and getting violations thrown out in court. With offices in Rock Hill, SC and surrounding areas, we represent clients throughout the state who want to challenge unjust speeding tickets.

Don’t let an improper citation go uncontested. With our attorneys by your side, you can fight the charges and potentially walk away with zero penalties. Schedule a consultation today to discuss your options.