Traffic Ticket and Municipal Fine Payment Plans: The Real Cost of Your Traffic Ticket

We’ve all done something that could get us a municipal ticket at some point in our lives. Whether you were ticketed or not, you probably have sped or at least jaywalked at one time. We have been there too. These types of traffic tickets and municipal fines are often seen as a nuisance more than anything else, and it is tempting to ignore them rather than fight the ticket. Unfortunately, few people realize the true cost of these tickets, beyond just the base fine.

For many people, a couple hundred dollar fine for a minor infraction seems unworthy of spending the time to contest in court. After all, payment plans are available in most of Pennsylvania. What many people don’t realize, though, is that many payment plans come with additional fees, which can make the seemingly small fine unmanageable for the average American. Even worse, if you fall behind on payments due to financial hardship or even a simple mistake, you face worse consequences. In certain cases, you could even lose your license or find yourself serving some jail time.

What Are My Options When It Comes to Traffic Tickets?

If you have been ticketed for a traffic offense or other minor municipal infraction, you don’t have to simply pay the fine. You have a right to have your case heard in court. With the help off a Pittsburgh traffic lawyer, you may be able to lessen the charges you face or even get them dismissed. In addition, you may be able to negotiate for community service or a lesser fine, which will make the burden of a ticketless difficult to manage. Though it may not seem like it, an infraction that “only” requires a fine can lead to much more serious consequences.

Don’t let a traffic ticket cost you big. Make sure that you know exactly what your options are before paying the fine, so that you can choose the best option. Even if you can afford the ticket, you may not be considering the long-term financial consequences of the ticket on your car insurance and the points on your license. Call the Pittsburgh traffic lawyers at Worgul, Sarna & Ness, Criminal Defense Attorneys, LLC today at (412) 281-2146 for a free consultation on your case. We will sit down with you and give you a realistic assessment of your situation so that you can decide on the best course of action for you.