If you’ve recently received a traffic ticket in Pennsylvania, your first instinct may be to simply plead guilty and pay the fine. However, before you make that decision, it’s essential to understand the full scope of the consequences. Pleading guilty to a traffic citation can affect more than just your wallet—it could lead to points on your driving record, higher insurance premiums, and even a suspension of your driver’s license. Consulting with an experienced attorney can help you avoid these potential consequences and achieve a better outcome.
Common Consequences of Pleading Guilty to a Traffic Citation in Pennsylvania
Many drivers mistakenly believe that a traffic citation is just a simple fine. However, Pennsylvania traffic laws can have serious consequences that affect your driving privileges. Here are the common penalties associated with pleading guilty to a traffic ticket:
- Points on Your Driving Record Pennsylvania uses a point system to track driving violations. If you plead guilty to a traffic violation, points can be added to your driving record depending upon the offense.
- Driver’s License Suspension If you accumulate too many points on your driving record, or commit certain violations, pleading guilty to a citation and paying a fine can result in your driver’s license being suspended. A suspended license can severely impact your ability to work, commute, and carry out everyday tasks, causing significant inconvenience for months or even years before your driving privilege can be restored.
- Increased Car Insurance Rates Insurance companies often raise premiums when drivers accumulate violations. If you plead guilty to a traffic citation, your insurance rates may go up, costing you more money in the long term.
Why You Should Consult an Attorney Before Pleading Guilty
While it may seem easier to just pay the fine and move on, consulting with an experienced attorney can help you fully understand the consequences of pleading guilty. Here’s why it’s important to seek legal counsel before making a decision:
- Understand All Potential Consequences
An attorney will provide a thorough explanation of how pleading guilty can affect your driving record, license, and more. By understanding the full scope of potential consequences, you can make an informed decision about how to proceed. - Negotiate a Better Outcome
An experienced attorney can negotiate on your behalf and potentially reduce the charges or minimize the penalties you face. - Evaluate Defenses to the Traffic Citation
Depending on the circumstances of your case, you may have valid defenses that can result in the dismissal or reduction of your traffic citation. A knowledgeable attorney will review the details of your case to determine if there are any grounds to contest the ticket, potentially helping you avoid unnecessary penalties.
Why Choose Unruh Turner Burke & Frees?
If you’ve received a traffic citation in Pennsylvania, don’t make the mistake of pleading guilty without understanding the full consequences first. We help drivers navigate the complexities of Pennsylvania’s Motor Vehicle Code. Whether you’re facing a minor infraction or a criminal charge such as Driving Under the Influence, we are committed to protecting your rights and helping you achieve the best possible outcome.
Contact our office to schedule a consultation. We’ll review your case, explain your legal options, and help you make an informed decision that minimizes the consequences on your driving record and future.
