Traffic tickets are a common issue for drivers in New Jersey, but many people are unaware of how serious the consequences can be. Even minor violations can result in fines, points on your license, and increased insurance premiums. In some cases, multiple traffic offenses can lead to license suspension or even jail time. If you’ve received a traffic ticket in New Jersey, it’s essential to understand your rights and how you can fight the ticket to avoid harsh penalties.
Common Traffic Violations in New Jersey
Some of the most common traffic violations in New Jersey include:
• Speeding: One of the most frequent violations, speeding tickets can result in hefty fines and points on your license. The number of points depends on how far over the speed limit you were driving.
• Running a Red Light or Stop Sign: Failing to obey traffic signals can result in fines, points, and even a court appearance.
• Reckless Driving: This charge is more severe than a simple speeding ticket. Reckless driving includes behaviors such as excessive speeding, tailgating, or swerving in and out of traffic. It carries heavier penalties, including possible jail time.
• Driving Without Insurance: New Jersey requires all drivers to carry auto insurance. If you’re caught without insurance, you may face fines, a license suspension, and surcharges.
• Distracted Driving: Using a cell phone or other electronic devices while driving is illegal in New Jersey. Violators can face fines and points on their license, with penalties increasing for repeat offenses.
Consequences of Traffic Violations
Many drivers assume that the easiest course of action is to pay the fine and move on. However, paying a ticket is essentially an admission of guilt, which can lead to points being added to your driving record. In New Jersey, accumulating too many points can result in a license suspension and mandatory participation in a driver improvement program. Insurance companies also use points to calculate your rates, meaning even a minor ticket can lead to increased premiums for years to come.
In more severe cases, such as reckless driving or driving without insurance, penalties may include community service, loss of your driving privileges, or even jail time. Commercial drivers face additional risks, as certain traffic violations could lead to the suspension or revocation of their commercial driver’s license (CDL), endangering their livelihood.
How The DiMaria Law Firm Can Help
If you’ve received a traffic ticket in New Jersey, you don’t have to face the consequences alone. The DiMaria Law Firm specializes in defending clients against traffic violations, helping them avoid points, fines, and other penalties. Attorney DiMaria will examine the details of your case, including whether the officer had proper grounds to issue the ticket and whether your rights were violated during the stop.
The firm works to negotiate with prosecutors to reduce charges or seek alternative penalties, such as traffic school, in lieu of points on your license. In some cases, we may be able to have the ticket dismissed entirely, saving you from the financial and legal repercussions of a conviction.
Fighting a traffic ticket can seem like a daunting task, but with the right legal representation, it is possible to minimize or eliminate the penalties. Contact The DiMaria Law Firm today for a consultation, and let us help protect your driving record and your future.