Legal Question in Traffic Law in New Jersey

Careless Driving

I recently received a careless driving ticket for crossing over to an exit lane too early. This is my first ticket in 20 years of driving and I am wondering if it is worth it to go to court to try to get the charge reduced to a no point violation. I have heard that you can pay a higher fine to get a no point violation and if you speak to the prosecutor beforehand, you might be able to not have court costs. Also, the ticket indicates that I was in a 65 mph zone but the speed limit is actually 55 there. From a monetary standpoint, I am thinking it is better to pay the ticket even if falsely doubled rather than pay the costs associated with fighting it. I understand that points will be removed from your license as time goes by, but it seems risky to not try to go for 0 points and fight it.


Asked on 11/01/05, 9:26 am

1 Answer from Attorneys
Drew Hurley Law Offices of Drew M. Hurley

Re: Careless Driving

The question of whether it is worth it to go to Court really can't be answered since it depends on what is important to you. If you plead guilty and pay the ticket, you will have two points assessed by MVC (formerly DMV). You may be assessed a surcharge by MVC and it may affect your insurance rate. On the other hand, if you negotiate a change in the charge to unsafe driving it will be a no point offense, but will cost you around $400.00 in fines and costs. As to whether you should retain an attorney, again that is up to you and might simply come down to a monetary decision. Good luck.

Read more
Answered on 11/01/05, 9:51 am


Related Questions & Answers

More Traffic Law questions and answers in New Jersey