Kinston Traffic Offense Lawyer

Can't Afford to Pay Your Traffic Ticket?

If you've been charged with a traffic violation in Kinston, NC, you may be tempted to simply pay the ticket and move on with your life. However, even minor traffic offenses can lead to lasting consequences that affect your driving record, insurance premiums, and, in some cases, your freedom. At Strickland Agner Pittman, our experienced Kinston traffic offense lawyers are here to help you understand your rights and provide the skilled defense you need. With a deep understanding of North Carolina traffic laws, we can help you minimize the impact of a traffic offense on your life.

Contact us today at (919) 893-0090 to discuss your legal options during an initial consultation.

Common Types of Driving Offenses in North Carolina

In North Carolina, traffic offenses are generally classified into three categories: infractions, misdemeanors, and felonies. Each type of offense carries different consequences based on the severity of the violation. Here’s an overview of the most common traffic offenses in the state:

• Speeding: Driving above the posted speed limit is one of the most common traffic offenses. Penalties can vary based on how far above the limit a driver is traveling. Minor speeding violations typically result in fines and points on a driver's license. Additionally, if a driver exceeds the speed limit by a significant margin (e.g., 15 mph over the limit in a 55 mph zone), this can be classified as a more serious offense and could lead to a reckless driving charge or a misdemeanor.
• Reckless Driving: Reckless driving is considered a misdemeanor in North Carolina. It involves driving with "willful or wanton disregard" for the safety of others or property. Common forms include excessive speeding, aggressive driving, or performing dangerous maneuvers on the road.
• Driving While Impaired (DWI): DWI (also known as DUI in other states) is a serious misdemeanor or felony charge, depending on the circumstances. A driver is considered impaired if their blood alcohol concentration (BAC) is 0.08% or higher. This offense can also apply if the driver is impaired by drugs, whether prescription or illegal substances.
• Driving Without a Valid License: Operating a vehicle without a valid driver's license is a misdemeanor offense. This includes driving with a suspended or revoked license or simply not having one at all.
• Hit and Run: Leaving the scene of an accident without providing necessary information or helping any injured individuals is illegal. North Carolina law classifies hit and run offenses as misdemeanors or felonies, depending on the extent of property damage or injury caused.
• Failure to Yield or Stop: This includes failing to yield the right of way at intersections, stop signs, or crosswalks. It can result in fines and points on the driver’s license. More serious violations, such as causing an accident or injury, can lead to increased penalties.
• Running Red Lights or Stop Signs: Running a red light or failing to stop at a stop sign is a common traffic infraction. Repeated offenses can lead to license points and increased insurance premiums.
• Driving Without Insurance: North Carolina requires all drivers to have liability insurance. Driving without it can result in fines, license suspension, and vehicle impoundment.
• Illegal Passing: Passing in a no-passing zone, such as in areas marked by solid yellow lines, or improperly passing a school bus that is stopped to let children off is a significant offense. The latter can result in higher penalties, including fines and license suspension.
• Careless and Impudent Driving: This is a lesser offense than reckless driving but still serious. It involves driving without proper caution or consideration for others' safety. It’s often cited when the behavior doesn’t rise to the level of reckless driving.
• Driving with a Revoked or Suspended License: Operating a vehicle while your license is suspended or revoked is a misdemeanor. This often results in harsher penalties, including extended suspension, fines, and potential jail time.
• Street Racing: Street racing is a felony in North Carolina. It involves competing in speed contests on public roads and is considered highly dangerous, with severe consequences like license suspension, vehicle impoundment, and potential jail time.

Reasons Why You Shouldn't Always Pay a Traffic Ticket

Many people assume that the easiest way to resolve a traffic ticket is to pay the fine and move on. However, this can lead to unintended long-term consequences that are far more severe than the immediate cost of the ticket, such as the following:

• Points on Your Driving Record: In North Carolina, traffic violations can add points to your driving record. Accumulating too many points within a certain period can result in the suspension of your driver’s license. Even minor offenses can add points, which stay on your record for years.
• Higher Insurance Premiums: Traffic violations can significantly impact your car insurance premiums. Once a ticket is on your record, your insurance provider may increase your rates, sometimes by as much as 25-30%. These increases can last for years, resulting in hundreds or even thousands of dollars in additional costs.
• License Suspension: Accumulating too many points on your driving record can lead to the suspension of your driver’s license. For many people, losing the ability to drive can create significant challenges in their personal and professional lives, making it harder to get to work, run errands, or care for family members.
• Potential for More Serious Charges: In some cases, paying a traffic ticket may be seen as an admission of guilt, which could leave you vulnerable to more severe penalties in the future. For example, if you are charged with reckless driving or DWI, simply paying the fine can lead to a criminal record and harsher penalties for future offenses.
• Long-Term Impact on Your Record: Traffic violations can stay on your driving record for years. This can affect future job opportunities, especially if your employment requires you to have a clean driving record or drive a company vehicle.

Why Choose Us?

Navigating the complexities of North Carolina traffic laws can be overwhelming. A skilled Kinston traffic offense lawyer at Strickland Agner Pittman can review your case, help you understand your options, and provide a strong defense to minimize the impact of a traffic violation. Here’s how we can help:

• Negotiate Lower Penalties: In many cases, we can negotiate with the prosecutor to reduce the penalties associated with your ticket. This may include reducing fines, avoiding points on your license, or preventing a license suspension.
• Challenge the Ticket: We can examine the circumstances of your ticket to determine if there were any errors or inconsistencies that can be challenged in court. For example, we can question whether the radar equipment used to issue a speeding ticket was properly calibrated or whether the officer followed proper procedure when issuing the citation.
• Prevent License Suspension: If you are facing the possibility of a license suspension due to points or a serious traffic offense, we can represent you in administrative hearings and court to help you retain your driving privileges.
• Provide Representation in Court: If your case requires a court appearance, we can provide the skilled legal representation you need. Our attorneys will build a strong defense to fight the charges and work to achieve the best possible outcome.

Contact the experienced Kinston traffic offense lawyers at Strickland Agner Pittman today.