Getting a traffic ticket in Colorado might seem like a minor inconvenience, but those citations can quickly add up and threaten your driving privileges. Each moving violation puts points on your license, and too many points can result in suspension, higher insurance premiums, and long-term consequences for your driving record. Fortunately, you do not have to simply pay the ticket and accept the points. In many cases, you can fight a traffic ticket and protect your record with the help of an experienced attorney.
Colorado uses a point-based system to track driving violations. Each type of infraction adds a certain number of points to your driving record. When those points reach a specific limit within a set time period, the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) can suspend your license. The limits depend on your age and the type of license you hold:
Each violation carries a different point value. For example, speeding 10–19 mph over the limit adds 4 points, careless driving adds 4 points, and reckless driving adds 8 points. A single serious violation can put your license in jeopardy, especially if you already have points on your record.
Many drivers assume that paying a traffic ticket will make the issue go away. In reality, paying a ticket is the same as pleading guilty. Once payment is processed, the violation is entered into your driving record and the associated points are added. Even if the fine seems small, those points can affect your license and raise your insurance rates for years.
Insurance companies often view moving violations as signs of risky driving behavior. Just one or two tickets can cause rate increases, while multiple violations may result in cancellation or nonrenewal of your policy. In addition, if you hold a commercial driver’s license or rely on driving for work, accumulating points can have serious professional consequences.
Before you decide to pay a ticket, it’s important to understand your options for challenging it. Fighting a ticket may help you avoid the points, reduce fines, or even have the citation dismissed entirely.
Colorado law gives you the right to contest any traffic ticket, but doing so effectively requires knowledge of court procedures and traffic laws. An attorney can help you navigate the process and identify defenses that may apply to your case. Some of the ways a lawyer can help include:
The traffic defense attorneys at The Law Office of James Colgan have extensive experience handling all types of Colorado traffic cases, from speeding tickets to reckless driving charges. We know how to challenge the evidence and negotiate favorable outcomes that protect your rights and driving privileges.
If you choose to contest a traffic ticket, you or your attorney will appear in court to present your defense. The officer who issued the citation must also attend and testify. If the officer fails to appear, your ticket may be dismissed automatically. If the officer is present, your attorney can question them, challenge their observations, and present evidence or witnesses on your behalf.
Common defenses include questioning the accuracy of speed detection devices, showing that weather or road conditions affected the incident, or proving that your actions were legally justified. In some cases, your lawyer may negotiate a plea deal that reduces the offense to a lesser charge with fewer or no points. This approach can save your record while avoiding the risks of a full trial.
It’s important to remember that every traffic court case is unique. A skilled attorney understands the local judges, prosecutors, and procedures and can tailor a strategy to the specifics of your situation.
Even minor traffic violations can have lasting effects on your driving privileges. Once points accumulate, the DMV can suspend your license for months, and reinstating it can require fees, hearings, and proof of insurance (SR-22). That’s why fighting a ticket is often worth the effort, especially if you already have prior violations on your record.
If you’re facing a traffic citation in Northglenn or anywhere in Colorado, The Law Office of James Colgan can help. Our firm understands how stressful it can be to deal with traffic court and how important it is to keep your record clean. We represent drivers in all types of traffic cases, from speeding and careless driving to DUI and license suspension hearings.
You don’t have to accept points on your license or risk losing your driving privileges. Contact us today to speak with an experienced Colorado traffic defense attorney who can review your case, explain your options, and fight to keep your record clear and your license protected.
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