Seeking Advice on Speeding Ticket and Legal Help
Hi everyone,
I live in Northern Virginia and haven’t received a ticket in over 15 years. However, this weekend, I was pulled over for going 80 in a 55 on Route 66. For those unfamiliar, it’s a multi-lane highway where traffic typically flows at 70-80 mph. Thankfully, the state trooper only issued a speeding ticket and not a reckless driving charge. Currently, I have no points on my license.
I reached out to a lawyer I used years ago, and he quoted $500 an hour or a flat fee of $1,500 for representation.
To give you some context, my wife and I have four cars on our insurance policy, one of which is an antique. We’re paying $250 a month for full coverage on everything, including an agreed value for the antique in case of a total loss.
I’ve done a bit of research and found that an insurance premium can increase by about 25% for a couple of years following a speeding ticket, even if it’s not reckless driving. Has anyone here experienced a similar bump in their insurance for a non-reckless speeding ticket?
I would really appreciate any advice or suggestions on how to handle this situation.
Thanks!
It sounds like you’re in a tough situation, but you’re not alone—speeding tickets can be stressful. Here are a few things to consider when deciding whether to hire a lawyer:
Cost-Benefit Analysis: The lawyer’s fee can be steep, but if they have a good track record in reducing fines or keeping points off your license, it might be worth it. Compare that with the potential insurance increase. If you’re facing a significant jump in your insurance premium, a lawyer could save you money in the long run.
Insurance Impact: While a speeding ticket can indeed lead to an increase in your insurance premium, the percentage and duration depend on your insurance company and your driving history. Since you have a clean record, your insurance company might be more lenient, but it can still vary widely. It’s worth calling your insurance provider to see if they can give you an estimate on how much your premium might increase.
Defense Options: Some drivers opt to attend a traffic school to mitigate points on their license or negotiate a plea deal. If you feel comfortable, you could also represent yourself, especially since this is your first ticket in a long time.
Local Laws and Lawyer Experience: Since you live in Northern Virginia, ensure that the lawyer you choose is familiar with local traffic laws and has experience dealing with cases similar to yours. They may know specific strategies to potentially get the ticket reduced or dismissed.
Personal Circumstances: Consider how this ticket might affect your personal situation—your driving habits, financial situation, and whether you can tolerate the potential rise in insurance costs.
Ultimately, if you’re thinking about hiring a lawyer, it’s also a good idea to consult with a few different ones to compare their approach and fees. Good luck, and drive safely!