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Should you ‘waive’ a traffic ticket in North Carolina?

On Behalf of | Aug 2, 2019 | Traffic Tickets |

If you are cited in North Carolina with something such as a minor speeding violation or an equipment violation, it might be a “waivable offense.” What is that?

It’s a minor offense. To handle it, you can “waive” your right to appear in court and challenge the ticket. Mailing in the ticket with a check for the fine, in effect, waives your opportunity to go to court. If you choose to pay the fine, you are admitting guilt and could see points placed on your driver’s license and/or your automobile rates could rise.

Traffic tickets in North Carolina typically state whether an offense is waivable and, if it is, list the fine and any court costs you’ll pay to waive it.

North Carolina has a long list of waivable offenses that include speeding under certain circumstances, driving too slowly, speeding in a work zone, driving without a license, texting while driving and parking in a handicapped spot.

The state also has a list of offenses that require a court appearance. These include tampering with an ignition interlock device, driving while impaired, racing or aggressive driving and driving a school bus while texting.

Waiving a traffic offense by simply paying the fine is the easy way out, for certain. You might be convinced that you didn’t commit the act for which you were ticketed but don’t want to take the time to deal with it.

That might not be the right move, however. Your driving record and your finances could be negatively impacted for years to come by taking responsibility for something you can prove you didn’t do. Before you sign that check, it’s wise to consult with an attorney to explain your case and find out what your options are.