How can I dispute a traffic ticket?
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How can I dispute a traffic ticket?
I was recently involved in an accident when someone ran a red light and hit me. The officer on scene did not speak to me about what happened, he only spoke with the other driver. However, I was found to be at fault by the officer for running the light and was given a court date on which I am required to appear to get the ticket. My insurance company has a recorded statement from a witness that saw the accident saying that the other driver ran the red light and hit me. Is there any way I can dispute the ticket in court? If so, what is the best way to go about this?
Asked on August 24, 2014 under Accident Law, Colorado
Answers:
SJZ, Member, New York Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 9 years ago | Contributor
The best way to dispute the ticket is retain an experienced attorney--one who works on traffic cases in this court and knows the prosecutor and judge. Ultimately, you dispute the ticket by presenting evidence (like that statement) that you did not do what you were accused of--i.e. that you did not run the light. You also defend against the ticket by negotiating ("plea bargaining") with the prosecutor, based on facts favorable to you, to get the ticket reduced, even if you can't get it dismissed entirely. However, it can be difficult for a nonattorney to present evidence in a way the court will accept (and find persuasive) and also negotiate with the prosecutor, which is why you want an experienced local lawyer to help you.
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