It’s a sunny morning, and you’re driving through Yonkers in Westchester County when you see those dreaded flashing lights in your rearview mirror. Suddenly, you’re facing a potential 11-point speeding ticket for going 100 mph in a 55 mph zone. What you do next could have long-lasting implications on your driving record and personal life.
Here’s a recent case that underscores the importance of hiring an experienced traffic attorney when dealing with serious traffic offenses.
A High-Speed Dilemma
A motorist found himself in this exact situation, charged with an 11-point speeding ticket at the Yonkers City Court. According to the New York Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), an 11-point speeding ticket conviction results in a mandatory license suspension.
And to add to the burden, the client was facing 8 additional points from multiple tickets (19 points in all), making the situation quite complex. But here’s where having the right representation in court can make all the difference.
The Prosecution’s Offer
The prosecutor extended an offer: reduce the ticket to a six-point speed if the client completed a New York State (NYS) approved defensive driving course. However, for personal reasons, the client declined this option. As a result, the prosecutor asked the court to suspend the client’s license pending trial, a process that, due to court backlog in Yonkers, could mean a suspension that lasts anywhere from 7 to 10 months.
This could have led to a suspension that would outlast the trial, and there were no guarantees of winning at trial. Plus, if the client were to be convicted of all 19 points, he would face even more severe penalties and suspensions, he would not get credit for the time he was suspended while the trial was pending.
The Power of Expert Representation
With the odds stacked against the client, I, as an experienced traffic attorney, stepped in to negotiate. Instead of leaving the fate of my client to an uncertain trial outcome, I proposed to lower the 19 points down to 6 points and negotiated that the client’s license suspended under the New York Vehicle and Traffic Law 510 for a period of only 90 days. The court imposed a fine on the six point speed in the sum of $300.
This case illustrates the essential role of a knowledgeable traffic lawyer. Instead of risking a prolonged suspension and additional penalties, the right representation can negotiate effectively to reduce the consequences substantially.
So, whether you’re facing a major offense or even a minor one, think twice before going it alone. Legal landscapes can be complex and overwhelming, and having a seasoned traffic lawyer by your side can provide the guidance and advocacy you need to navigate these treacherous waters.
Remember, the stakes are high, and the right decision today can save you from potential hassles tomorrow. Stay safe, drive responsibly, and know that should you ever need legal assistance, experienced and dedicated traffic attorneys are here to help.