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Receiving a traffic ticket can be stressful, but there are ways to minimize its impact. In North Carolina, traffic school programs allow drivers to reduce points on their driving record, potentially lower insurance rates, and avoid further penalties. Here’s what you need to know about how traffic school can help after receiving a ticket.
The Benefits of Traffic School
Traffic school is a defensive driving course that educates drivers on safe driving practices and traffic laws. Attending traffic school can provide several benefits:
- Point reduction–In North Carolina, traffic tickets add points to your driving record, which can lead to higher insurance premiums or even license suspension if you accumulate too many points. Completing traffic school can reduce the number of points, helping to keep your record cleaner.
- Lower insurance rates–Insurance companies often increase premiums after you receive a traffic ticket. By attending traffic school, you may qualify for a discount on your insurance rates or prevent a rate increase, saving you money in the long run.
- Potential dismissal– In some cases, completing traffic school may lead to the dismissal of your ticket, meaning it won’t appear on your driving record. This can be especially beneficial if you are facing a minor offense and want to avoid the long-term consequences of a ticket on your record.
Eligibility for Traffic School
Not all traffic tickets are eligible for traffic school in North Carolina. Eligibility often depends on the nature of the offense, your driving history, and whether you’ve attended traffic school in the past. Generally, minor traffic violations, such as speeding or failing to stop at a stop sign, are eligible for traffic school. At the same time, more severe offenses like reckless driving or DUI may not qualify.
It’s crucial to check with the court handling your ticket to determine if traffic school is an option for your case. An experienced traffic attorney can also assist you in understanding your eligibility and the potential benefits of attending traffic school.
How to Enroll in Traffic School
If you are eligible, the process of enrolling in traffic school typically involves the following steps:
- Check Court Approval: Before enrolling, ensure the court approves the traffic school you plan to attend. Sometimes, the court may have a list of approved programs you must choose from.
- Register for a Course: Once approved, you can register for an online or in-person traffic school course. Make sure it covers the court’s requirements.
- Complete the Course: Traffic school courses vary in length but usually take a few hours. Upon finishing, you’ll receive a certificate of completion, which you must submit to the court.
- Submit Proof to the Court: After completing the course, provide your certificate of completion to the court handling your ticket. This step is essential to ensure the points reduction or ticket dismissal is processed correctly.
When Traffic School Might Not Be Enough
While traffic school can be a helpful tool in managing the consequences of a traffic ticket, it may not be sufficient for all situations. If you’re facing a serious offense or have a history of traffic violations, you may benefit from legal representation to negotiate reduced penalties or contest the ticket. An attorney can also help you explore whether traffic school is a viable option and, if not, develop a defense strategy to protect your driving record and minimize costs.
If you’ve received a traffic ticket in Beaufort or Carteret County, Hancock Law Firm can help. Contact us today to discuss your options and see if traffic school is right for your situation.